Dementia Caregiving Research: Expanding and Reframing the Lens of Diversity, Inclusivity, and Intersectionality

Gerontologist. 2020 Jul 15;60(5):797-805. doi: 10.1093/geront/gnaa050.

Abstract

This forum expands and reframes the lens of dementia caregiving research among diverse racial and ethnic groups to better understand the unique needs, stressors, and strengths of multicultural and racial-ethnic family caregivers in the United States. By providing more diverse and inclusive knowledge on caregiving to older adults in the United States, we can create a new path forward with regards to caregiving research. Throughout the article, major questions and answers are supported by critiquing some of the caregiving literature. Discussions are provided to help create inclusive ways of conceptualizing caregiving research and using methodological approaches to reflect the diversity of caregivers and care recipients in the United States. Expanding and reframing the conceptual and methodological lens of diversity, inclusivity and intersectionality can provide evidence to support effective policy, practice, and care in addressing the needs of diverse groups of caregivers and older adults living with dementia.

Keywords: Caregiving; Ethnicity; Inclusion; Race; Recruitment.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Caregivers / psychology*
  • Dementia / nursing*
  • Ethnicity
  • Humans
  • Racial Groups
  • Research Design*
  • Social Support
  • United States