Developing Care Partner Activation Program among Filipino American Care Partners of Persons with Dementia

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundAttention must be given to Filipino‐Americans since they are a growing underrepresented population and limited research exists on their healthcare needs, priorities, and research engagement. The broad goal of this project is to address the unique challenges related to the provision of Dementia care among Filipino‐Americans.MethodMixed‐method sequential, transformative design to develop and test a program for care partners to strengthen their abilities to manage care activities, emergency department visits, and hospital admissions who experience disparities in access to care.ResultIn partnership with different Filipino‐American community‐based organizations, leaders were identified to explore capabilities and resources available to initiate the care partner activation program. Major support needed in areas related to: family dynamics and caregiving experience, spiritual and cultural values, communication and understanding of the disease process, advocacy groups, socio‐emotional support, insurance system, and financial concerns.ConclusionEducational opportunities exists for Filipino‐American families and communities related to provision of care among patients with dementia. Community‐based participatory research need to be promoted to encourage families and patients to engage and improve healthcare utilization.