Our expert answers 3 Questions
What are you thinking about?
I am thinking about supporting Black family dementia caregivers.
Why is this interesting to you?
It is interesting to me because they carry a heavier care burden since Black older adults are diagnosed with dementia last in the disease process, yet they most often don't know about or can't afford community support, such as respite, adult daycare services, or time off from work.
What are the practical implications for healthcare?
The implication for healthcare is that these caregivers tend to have comorbid conditions and neglect their own care, so when they fall ill, the cost is higher to the healthcare system because the caregiver needs care, and the care receiver will also need additional support (LTC placement, respite placement etc.).