Impact of culture on stress and coping: The experiences of Latina dementia caregivers

Due to the projected growth of older adults with dementia, it is important to understand the stress and coping process of caregivers who care for a family member with dementia. This qualitative study examined how Latina dementia caregivers cope with stress and utilize caregiver services. Findings from the 12 interviews with Latina caregivers revealed that dealing with difficult behavior was the main challenge the caregivers faced in providing care to a family member with dementia. Most of the caregivers coped with the challenges through their spirituality and faith. Filial responsibility was an influential cultural and/or family value. Latina caregivers also used few formal caregiver services or no services at all. The findings of this study provide insight on how to better assist Latina caregivers caring for a family member with dementia.