Candrian C, Burke ES, Kline D, Torke AM. Experiences of caregiving with Alzheimer's disease in the LGBT community.
BMC Geriatr 2023;
23:293. [PMID:
37189062 PMCID:
PMC10184068 DOI:
10.1186/s12877-023-03914-1]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND
The goal of this paper is to develop a more thorough understanding of the experiences of LGBT older adults living with dementia and their caregivers.
METHODS
A phenomenological approach using in-depth interviews with current or former caregivers of LGBT persons living with Alzheimer's disease (AD) was conducted.
RESULTS
Participants ranged in age from 44-77 years old; 74% were lesbian, 16% gay, 5% straight, and 5% unknown. Five themes were identified from the analysis: Caregiver tension and isolation; financial stress & security; lack of social support & connection; engineering grief support, and entrapment of past and present stigma and discrimination.
CONCLUSIONS
Discrimination related to LGBT status was an important theme over the participants' lives and occurred for several during dementia care. While other themes were similar to prior AD studies, LGBT status affected these other aspects of the caregiving experience. Findings can inform future programs that better meet needs of LGBT people and those who care for them.
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