Exploring Care Service Use Among Latino LGBTQ+ Caregivers of Persons Living with Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundLatino and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or queer (LGBTQ+) adults are both growing populations at increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD). The increased prevalence in ADRD among these populations requires caregiving that is often met by informal caregivers. Yet, very little is known about the experiences of informal ADRD caregivers who identify as both Latino and LGBTQ+.MethodWe examined differences in sociodemographic characteristics, caregiving characteristics, and use of caregiver support services between English‐proficient Latino and non‐Latino LGBTQ+ ADRD caregivers recruited via social media (n = 286; Latino n = 103).ResultLatino caregivers identified as gay (45%), lesbian (24%), bisexual (20%), and queer/other (11%). Sixty‐one percent identified as cisgender (not transgender) women, 39% cisgender men, and 19% identified as transgender. On average, Latino caregivers were younger (36 vs. 38 years old), reported a lower percentage of individuals who completed a college degree (36% vs. 51%), a higher income (64% vs. 50%), and a lower percentage of being married or partnered (44% vs 63%). Latino caregivers were in their caregiving roles for seven months less than non‐Latino caregivers, and reported a greater (8% vs. 6%) presence and severity of behavioral symptoms of distress (e.g., agitation, disrupted sleep) among their care recipients living with ADRD. Latino caregivers indicated their care recipients had less dependence in activities of daily living (1.3 vs. 1.8) and more independence in instrumental activities of daily living (5.1 vs. 4.2). Latino caregivers also reported lower use of respite services (38% vs. 51%), transportation services (37% vs. 53%), and making home modifications (34% vs. 71%) for their care recipients living with ADRD.ConclusionFindings indicate Latino and non‐Latino LGBTQ+ ADRD informal caregivers differed in sociodemographic characteristics, length of time caregiving, and the presence and severity of behaviors and functioning levels of their care recipients living with ADRD. Latino caregivers utilized caregiver support services to a lesser degree than non‐Latino caregivers. More research is needed to understand ways to address the needs and better serve this growing population.