Listening to Latino families dealing with memory loss

Latinos make up over six percent of the older adult population, and are expected to become the largest racial/ethnic minority in adults over 65 years by 2050. As a result, Latino family caregivers of adults with memory loss are a rapidly growing group. Relatively little is known about Latino dementia family caregivers' use of health and social services in the care of their family member; even less is known about their views of research on families impacted by dementia. This qualitative study used focus groups to explore Latino family caregiver's utilization of dementia-related programs, services and research. A series of six focus groups were held. Four focus groups were conducted with Latino family caregivers; two were conducted in English and two were in Spanish. Two focus groups were held with health or social service providers who work with Latino family caregivers. Across family caregiver and provider groups, recurrent themes reinforced previous research and included the need for bilingual, bicultural providers, providing education and outreach through senior centers and other Hispanic community venues, and emphasizing personal interaction and follow up. Findings unique to this study related to views of research. Research was viewed as an opportunity to learn new information and connect with others. Sharing of personal experiences of Latinos who participated in research was thought to be effective in recruiting Latinos into research projects. The need for bicultural research staff was a theme across all groups. Additional similarities and differences across groups will be addressed.