Health of Elderly Mexican American Adults and Family Caregiver Distress

Abstract

Using newly available data on family caregivers from a large epidemiological study of elderly Mexican-origin adults (Hispanic Established Population for the Epidemiologic Study of the Elderly [HEPESE], 2010/2011), we identify which types of impairment (functional, psychological, and cognitive) in the elderly individual are associated with family caregiver depressive symptoms. Results from ordinary least squares regressions using 626 caregiver–care recipient dyads demonstrate that more severe mobility limitations (Performance-Oriented Mobility Assessment), social disability (instrumental activities of daily living), neuropsychiatric disturbances related to cognitive decline (Neuropsychiatric Inventory), and depressive symptoms in the elderly subject are positively associated with caregiver psychological distress. Perceived social stress partially accounts for these associations. We also identify certain segments of this caregiver population that are especially vulnerable to burden when caring for a family member with high levels of impairment, namely female and low-income caregivers. These vulnerabilities should be the focus of intervention efforts to reduce stress and improve the emotional and psychological well-being of Mexican-origin caregivers.

Employment adjustment and mental health of employed family caregivers in Canada

“…Family caregiving for older adults has received increased attention within academic and public policy arenas since the 1960s (Carretero, Garces, Rodenas, & Sanjose, 2009;Rote, Angel, & Markides, 2015;Stephens, Townsend, Martire, & Druley, 2001;Zarit, Reever, & Bach-Peterson, 1980). Empirical research has shed light on various aspects of family caregiving, including the decision to become a family caregiver, conflict between caregiving and other familial or social roles, potential benefits for care receivers and health care system, social, financial, health, and emotional caregiving outcomes, and intervention programs providing support to family caregivers (Anngela-Cole & Hilton, 2009;Carbone & Gugliucci, 2014;Carretero et al, 2009;Clay, Roth, Wadley, & Haley, 2008;Kennet, Burgio, & Schulz, 2000;Lai, 2007Lai, , 2010Malhotra, Østbye, Matchar, & Chan, 2012;Reis, McGinty, & Jones, 2003;Schulz & Sherwood, 2008;Walker, Pratt, & Eddy, 1995).…”

Impact of Multiple Chronic Conditions on Activity Limitations Among Older Mexican-American Care Recipients

“…Because this study focused on care recipients who needed assistance from caregivers to complete self-care and household tasks, respondents who reported they were independent in self-care and household tasks (n = 329) were excluded from this study. Studies using data from the HEPESE used a similar approach to selecting study care recipients who needed assistance ( 21 ). Fifty-seven care recipients were also excluded from the sample because they did not receive the Mini Mental Status Exam, and 54 care recipients were excluded because of missing information for sociodemographic or health characteristics.…”

Occupational Deprivation or Occupational Adaptation of Mexican Americans on Renal Dialysis

“…Practitioners may need to facilitate cultural patterns that fare successfully within families (Gorman et al, ). Reducing stress and improving the emotional and psychological well‐being of caregivers who are caring for a family member with high levels of impairment should be a focus of intervention (Rote et al, ). Occupational therapists may help the family members before and after to understand the procedures and requirements of dialysis (Chau et al, ).…”