What Matters to Chinese and Korean American Dementia Caregivers: Navigating Cultural Influences in Dementia Care from Caregivers' Perspectives

Jing Wang, I. Tek Leong, Min Kyoung Johnson, Yaolin Pei, Kyung Hee Lee, Mary S. Mittelman, Cynthia Epstein, Soyeon Cho, Bei Wu

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Background: Chinese and Korean Americans are among the fastest-growing minority groups in the US but face disparities in income and limited English proficiency, leading to health inequities in Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) care. Objective: This study aims to understand cultural influences in ADRD care from the perspectives of Chinese and Korean American caregivers to inform culturally sensitive support for caregivers in Asian immigrant populations. Methods: We conducted a study that was part of a broader project aimed at informing the cultural adaptation of the NYU Caregiver Intervention-Enhanced Support (NYUCI-ES) program specifically for Chinese and Korean American caregivers managing multiple chronic conditions. In our interviews with 14 Chinese American and 11 Korean American caregivers, we focused on how their roles as primary caregivers were influenced by cultural and family expectations, the impact of caregiving on their personal and emotional well-being, and the specific barriers they face in accessing healthcare for themselves and their relatives with dementia. Results: Cultural beliefs and values significantly influenced the perceptions and utilization of support systems among Chinese and Korean American caregivers. Family stigma and adherence to cultural norms impacted their caregiving experiences. The study also highlighted the added burden during the pandemic and the potential benefits of telehealth and information technology in ADRD care. Conclusions: Developing culturally tailored, person-centered programs is crucial to meeting the unique needs of Chinese and Korean American caregivers. This research contributes to understanding and supporting this vulnerable population, promoting healthcare equity for ADRD patients and caregivers.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)519-538
Number of pages20
JournalJournal of Alzheimer's Disease
Volume98
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Mar 19 2024

Keywords

  • Alzheimer's disease
  • COVID-19
  • culture
  • ethnicity
  • self care
  • social stigma

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Neuroscience
  • Clinical Psychology
  • Geriatrics and Gerontology
  • Psychiatry and Mental health

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