Abstracts Category : Other

Dementia Caregiver: Support Group, Stress, and Health Challenges

by Guerra Ana Martinez

This thesis focuses on caregivers caring for a family member with Alzheimer's or other types of dementia. The purpose of this study is to analyze the impact that support groups have on the caregiver???s ability to care for their loved one while managing stress and possible health challenges. The research addresses the needs of caregivers to see if support groups are helping them manage stress and health care challenges. It also aims to identify if caregivers are provided services in a culturally competent manner. A total of 17 dementia caregivers participated by completing a survey that addressed support groups, stress, and health. The results indicated that support groups help alleviate stress and health challenges, but it is not significant to be generalized. Caregiver stress consisted of their personal health being affected for the worse, being irritable, and a little anxious. Mental health issues were also identified as being worse than physical health.Advisors/Committee Members: Clarke, Kris (advisor), Harris, Debra (committeeMember).