Making Sense of a Disease That Makes No Sense: Cultural Understandings of Dementia Among Alaska Native Caregivers
2024

Cultural Understandings of Dementia Among Alaska Native Caregivers

Sample size: 22 publication

Author Information

Author(s): Lewis Jordan

Primary Institution: University of Alaska Fairbanks, College of Indigenous Studies

Hypothesis

The study investigates the cultural understandings of dementia among Alaska Native caregivers.

Conclusion

The study highlights the need for culturally responsive training and support services for Alaska Native caregivers dealing with dementia.

Supporting Evidence

  • The Alaska Native Health system is not prepared for the increasing rates of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.
  • Caregivers expressed concerns about the lack of understanding and resources for dementia among Alaska Natives.
  • Health care providers acknowledged their limited exposure to Alaska Native perspectives on dementia.

Takeaway

This study talks about how caregivers for Alaska Natives with dementia need more help and training to understand the disease better.

Methodology

Interviews were conducted with 22 Alaska Native caregivers, lasting approximately 60 minutes each, and analyzed using directed content analysis.

Participant Demographics

Alaska Native caregivers for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/geroni/igae098.0893

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