Traditional and Nontraditional Family Dementia Caregiving Among Sexual and Gender Minorities
2024

Dementia Caregiving Among Sexual and Gender Minorities

publication

Author Information

Author(s): Flatt Jason, Kittle Krystal, Pickett Andrew, Dowling Maritza, Anderson Joel

Hypothesis

What are the unique needs of sexual and gender minority dementia caregivers?

Conclusion

The study found that sexual and gender minority dementia caregivers have unique caregiving experiences and support needs.

Supporting Evidence

  • Over 350,000 sexual and gender minority older adults in the U.S. are living with dementia.
  • At least 1 in 10 sexual and gender minority caregivers are providing care to someone with dementia.
  • 10-20% of sexual and gender minority dementia caregivers report caring for non-traditional family members.
  • Over half of sexual and gender minority dementia caregivers do not live with their care recipient.
  • 17% of sexual and gender minority caregivers report caring for a grandparent with dementia compared to 4% of non-sexual and gender minority caregivers.

Takeaway

Some people who identify as LGBTQ+ take care of family members with dementia, and they have different experiences than other caregivers.

Methodology

The study synthesized findings from several studies examining the health of sexual and gender minority dementia caregivers.

Limitations

The study did not find significant differences in health outcomes between traditional and non-traditional caregivers, which may limit understanding of their unique needs.

Participant Demographics

The study focused on sexual and gender minority dementia caregivers, including those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, and others.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/geroni/igae098.1320

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