Emory Roybal-Funded Project Aims to Support Latino Dementia Caregivers

A University of Rochester School of Nursing-led study seeks to enhance caregiver emotional well-being for Latinos caring for a loved one with dementia.

The study, led by clinical psychologist and Assistant Professor of Clinical Nursing Maria Quiñones-Cordero, PhD, will adapt Tele-Savvy, an online psychoeducational and skill-building program for dementia caregivers, to better meet the unique needs of Latino caregivers. Tele-Savvy has helped reduce depression and stress while improving caregivers’ sense of self-efficacy.

Existing caregiving interventions have mostly been developed with highly educated, white populations, and these findings often do not translate to diverse communities. The cultural adaptation considers factors such as language, learning and communication styles, attitudes and stigma surrounding dementia, and the importance of collectivism in Hispanic and Latino cultures.

The community-engaged project will also involve collaboration with a Community Advisory Board, who will help Quiñones-Cordero develop the adaptation and assess its acceptability and usability. The board includes Latino caregivers, community leaders, and clinicians.

“We want Latino caregivers to be able to see themselves reflected in the content they are learning, so that it can be more meaningful and helpful to them in the process of caring for a loved one,” she said. “It’s important for Latinos to learn about dementia in the context of our culture and community.”

Learn more about aging research at the School of Nursing's Elaine C. Hubbard Center for Nursing Research on Aging. Get the latest UR Nursing news in your inbox.