Using mobile messaging to support aftercare for recovering alcohol addicts
Abstract
Background: The use of mobile texting has grown dramatically in the world
including in Kenya. It has been suggested that the technology influences people‘s
behaviors including alcoholic addiction. Many studies have been done in developed
world to investigate the effects of using mobile texting in supporting alcoholic addicts
from relapse and it has proved to be effective. The same technology if used here in
Kenya would also help in reducing the cases of relapse among the alcoholics.
Method/design: This was a cross sectional descriptive study of recovering alcoholic
addicts and their caregivers in a rehabilitation center of ages above between 18 and 50
years. Quantitative data was obtained from 39 addicts and their caregivers using a
self-administered semi structured questionnaire. One Focus Group Discussion (FGDs)
with 12 caregiver and addicts which discussion was conducted to obtain qualitative
data. Quantitative data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences
(SPSS) software version 20, while qualitative data was analyzed using content
analysis. Secondly design of an android based application individually tailored with
automated text message-based for alcohol relapse self-care support application
intervention in addition to usual care.
Discussion: This study will provide information on the effectiveness of a text
message-based self-management support tool for people with alcoholics. If found to
be effective it has the potential to provide individualized support to people with
alcoholism across other counties in Kenya, thus extending care outside the clinic
environment.
Citation
Master of Science in Applied ComputingPublisher
University of Nairobi