Perceptions of Dementia and Dementia Care Among African Immigrants in Minnesota: Insights From Community Conversations

Abstract

Objectives: This qualitative descriptive study explored the perceptions of dementia, dementia care, and caregiving within the African immigrant community. Methods: Six community conversations (focus groups) were held with 24 participants. Three conversations were led by project advisory board members and utilized a 12-question conversation guide. The recorded conversations were transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: Of the 24 African immigrants who participated, 52% were 55-75 years old, 67% identified as female, and 39% were married or cohabitating. Twenty percent were currently providing care to a relative with dementia and 40% had provided care to a relative with dementia in the past. Four themes were identified. These included (1) attitudes toward mental health, illnesses, and poor health, (2) community attitudes toward dementia, and dementia caregiving, (3) barriers to dementia care and caregiving, and (4) current dementia care resources in the African immigrant community. Discussion: The findings show that African immigrant cultural beliefs significantly shape dementia care and caregiving attitudes, preferences, and behavioral practices. African immigrants' cultural backgrounds influence (or have the potential to influence) timely access and engagement in dementia care. And, depending on how deeply held these cultural beliefs are, they could affect dementia care and caregiving both positively and negatively. With the rapidly growing immigrant older adult population, there is a need for systemic strategies to facilitate affordable and culturally responsive dementia care for African immigrants and other minoritized older adults.