Service needs and use: A further look at the experiences of African American and white caregivers seeking Alzheimer's assistance

Abstract

The experiences of 150 African American and 150 white caregivers of persons with dementia indicate that although they differ in several characteristics, they are seeking assistance at comparable periods in their caregiving careers. Reasons for calling Alzheimer's Associations were similar although African Americans have a greater interest in services such as home help and day care. However, both report high levels of interest in chapter services and are positive about their plans to use them. At the end of 12 months, neither group has followed through on these plans with both groups stating that they were not ready for services or did not need services, while during the same period, both their own status and that of their relative had deteriorated.