Hispanic caregivers of older adults with dementia: Cultural issues in outreach and intervention

Ethnic minorities particularly the elderly, have been noted to underutilize health care services and programs. Recent studies have illustrated that Alzheimers's support services for Hispanic family caregivers are needed and can be developed within Hispanic populations when ethnocultural factors are integrated into the outreach and intervention plans. This paper provides background material on the issue of barriers to the utilization of services by Hispanics. Family members suggest methods for conducting culturally relevant outreach. A description of currently available intervention strategies is also provided, including respite care, support groups, and psychoeducational classes.