Recent research sponsored by the Alzheimer’s Association is revealing some unexpected results in how dementia symptoms may show differently in Hispanic people. While more investigation is necessary to fully understand whether these differences are the result of social/cultural nuances or even the dementia itself, it is important information for Latino families to understand.
Daily Activities
One highlight associated with the research was the dramatically faster decline in the capability to do everyday activities, such as getting dressed, walking, and taking a shower, in comparison to other ethnicities. Andrea Ochoa Lopez, the University of Houston doctoral student who directed the research, explained that the cultural devotion to taking care of elderly family relations can be a contributing factor.
“Some families want to start doing everything for their older members to try and remove some of the burdens and make their lives easier,” she said. “But there is research showing that when cognition is declining, older people actually do better when they stay active. And there is also still stigma. They may not want their elder family member to be seen as ill or mentally unstable.”
Depression and Anxiety
While we understand that depression and anxiety are risk factors for dementia, a separate study of 5,000 individuals showed a significantly higher percentage of Hispanic individuals reporting these dementia symptoms: significantly more than 25%, as compared to almost 16% and 11% in black and non-Hispanic white participants, respectively. Focusing on the mental wellness of adults with dementia is a must. Clinical psychologist Michael Cuccaro explains, “We have lots of great evidence that medications and talk therapy help, but minorities have the lowest rate of getting this help.”
While more diverse research is required to more clearly understand these ethnic differences in dementia, finding minorities to participate in research has been challenging. Latinos currently make up less than 8% of current dementia scientific research studies – regardless of the reality that the prevalence of dementia in Latinos is as much as 50% greater than it is in non-Hispanic whites.
Families interested in current Latino dementia research opportunities can look at the Alzheimer’s Association’s TrialMatch page to find out more.
At Independence-4-Seniors Home Care, our professional caregivers are fully trained and experienced in assisting older adults with whatever their unique difficulties are, making life the best it can be. We accomplish this by meeting with each senior in his or her home prior to the start of services, enabling us to create an individualized plan of care. We then diligently monitor the care plan with time making sure that needs are always met fully, both now and as needs change.
If the need is for just a little assistance with housework and meals, companionship, and transportation, or if some more specialized dementia care assistance is necessary, Independence-4-Seniors Home Care has the perfect solution. We provide in-home dementia care in Hinsdale and the surrounding area. Contact us at 630-323-4665 to set up your free in-home consultation to learn more.