Resigned but Resilient: Caregiver Perceptions of Role Ambiguity and Quality of Care During Hospital-to-Home Transitions of Older Latinos Living With Dementia

ObjectivesHospital-to-home transitions are high-risk periods, especially for Latinos living with dementia. Cultural differences may exacerbate role ambiguity-unclear patient/caregiver/provider roles. The objective was to elicit views on role ambiguity and care quality during hospital-to-home transitions of older Latinos with dementia and categorize factors shaping healthcare-related task distribution.MethodsQualitative study using semi-structured interviews with caregivers of older Latinos with dementia.ResultsInterviews with 21 caregivers indicated 1) concern about over-medication, 2) resignation over limited medication effectiveness, 3) scarcity of culturally specific resources, 4) wariness to trust medical institutions, and 5) aversion to institutional care. Factors shaping healthcare-related tasks were geographic proximity, gender roles, relationship to patient, English fluency, and work schedules.DiscussionCaregivers felt disillusioned and unsupported during care transitions. Findings suggest healthcare professionals and advocacy organizations should carefully consider efforts to connect caregivers to sources of culturally tailored, home-based support, and they could engage in concerted efforts to earn trust.