Latino Caregiver Experience: Can Community Based Care Management Improve Caregiver Health?

Objectives: This study provides an analysis of the Latino caregiving community in Southeast Texas and the role community based care management plays in influencing caregiver physical and emotional well-being. Methods: A non-random sample of 63 Latino caregivers was interviewed by phone. Caregiver physical and emotional well-being was studied through burden, depression, perceived health status and resourcefulness. Regression, correlation and comparison analysis was performed with key variables. Results: Acculturation was positively correlated with care management use. In comparing dementia and non-dementia caregivers both groups had similar levels of depression and burden. Additionally, the dementia group had significantly lower levels in perceived health and social resourcefulness. Mental and physical health outcomes did not change significantly in the group receiving care management over the three month evaluation period. Discussion: Further research is necessary to assess whether care management services can positively influence caregiver health outcomes and findings need to drive policy for program remodeling and implementation. Moreover, social service and health professionals must better understand the differences between dementia and non-dementia caregivers in the Latino population and address these differences in their program planning and service delivery.