Disparities in hospice utilization and perceptions of hospice quality persist among Hispanic subgroups. Underserved populations and their caregivers need improved access to high-quality end-of-life services. Puerto Ricans constitute the second-largest Hispanic population in the U.S., so examining their caregiving hospice experience is essential. Here, we describe developing and testing an innovative four-episode telenovela video based on the Experience-Based Co-Design (EBCD) model.
Methods
This single-arm clinical trial examined the preliminary outcomes, feasibility, and acceptability of culturally tailored videos for Puerto Rican hospice caregivers. Measures included caregivers’ preparedness and knowledge scores before and after watching a four-episode telenovela video and the helpfulness of each video (Likert scale; open-ended questions). We used descriptive statistics and content analysis.
Results
Participants (N = 10) were mostly Puerto Rican female (n = 8) caregivers, average age 68 years. Caregivers’ total preparedness and knowledge scores increased after watching the telenovela. The video was well-received for its helpfulness, compassionate guidance, and normalization of end-of-life stages.
Conclusions
This pilot study supports the idea that culturally tailored telenovelas can benefit Puerto Rican home hospice caregivers. We noted positive effects on preparedness, knowledge, and helpfulness. Participants perceived the content as culturally sensitive and educational, yet emotionally challenging, underscoring the nuanced responsibility of caregiving.
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