Minority Caregivers of Dementia Victims: A Comparison of Black and Hispanic Families

Abstract

The experiences of 31 Black and 19 Hispanic families caring for dementia victims at home were examined through data collected in two interviews six months apart. Caregivers'health status, mental well-being, attitudes towards caregiving, and use of informal and formal supports were measured. Data were also collected on the patient's degree of mental and physical impairment. The findings indicate that both groups maintain strong feelings of filial support for the aged and have actively involved informal support networks. Formal services are also used, although the attitudes towards them and the factors related to their use varied between the Black and Hispanic respondents. For both groups, the increased use of formal services at the second interview was related to a decrease in informal supports. Health of the caregivers did not appear to be affected although the Hispanics gave evidence of depression. The article discusses implications of these findings.