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Dementia Caregiving: The Experiences of Hispanic/Latino Caregivers

Simmons College

Diane Feeney Mahoney, PhD

Hebrew Senior Life’s Research Institute

The purpose of this study was to explore the phenomenon of dementia caregiving in an ethnically diverse group of Latino caregivers, with the goal of identifying cultural influences on the caregiving experience. This qualitative, descriptive, cross-sectional study used Leininger’s ethnonursing approach. There were more similarities than differences in this multiethnic sample of Latino caregivers in understanding of dementia symptoms, beliefs about the caregiving role, and in the factors affecting ongoing care. A lack of knowledge about dementia, rather than culturally influenced beliefs, was the major deterrent to recognition of initial symptoms. Participants viewed family-centered home care as a culturally embedded value but were willing to consider placement when home care became impractical. Providers need to understand the ways in which caregivers must negotiate the tension between cultural beliefs and the demands of their individual circumstances.

Key Words: dementia • caregiving • caregivers • Hispanic • Latino

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