Exploring Coping Strategies and Barriers in Dementia Care: A Mixed-Methods Study of African American Family Caregivers in Kentucky

This study explores coping strategies and barriers to dementia care experienced by African American dementia caregivers in Kentucky. Utilizing a convergent mixed-method design integrating focus group and survey data on African American dementia caregivers recruited through churches in Kentucky (N = 28), we elucidate three coping strategies: love-based coping, religion-based coping, and family support. Results from survey data supported these themes, with over 90% of participants reporting that they provide care to give back to family members and for religious reasons. However, over half of the caregivers' reported strain due to three barriers identified by focus group data: time constraints, low support, and the high cost of formal care. This exploratory study highlights the importance of intervention tactics for African American dementia caregivers that focus not only on individual and family support but also community-based outreach and support.

Automated summary

This study examines coping strategies and barriers faced by African American dementia caregivers in Kentucky. Love-based coping, religion-based coping, and family support are identified as the three main strategies. Survey results show that over 90% of participants provide care for family members and for religious reasons. However, focus group data reveals that caregivers also struggle with time constraints, lack of support, and the high cost of formal care.