The Experiences and Challenges of Informal Caregivers: Common Themes and Differences among Whites, Blacks, and Hispanics

About This Analysis: Data from the national survey were available regarding the experiences of respondents from different racial and ethnic groups who lived in New York City. Respondents were separated into the following categories: white (n=164); black (n=129); and Hispanic (n=87). The analysis sought to identify the experiences of family caregivers from different racial and ethnic groups.

Summary Findings: More than 70 percent of family caregivers received no formal help (such as from paid professionals) from the health care system. Compared to white caregivers, black caregivers were more likely to have provided higher-intensity care; had unmet needs with care provision; become more religious since becoming caregivers; and were less likely to have had difficulty with providing care. Hispanic caregivers were more likely than white caregivers to have received help from health care providers and to have become more religious since beginning caregiving.

Conclusions: Although all family caregivers share similar experiences and challenges, ethnic and cultural differences do exist. Public policy makers, program planners, and health care and social service providers should develop culturally sensitive programs, policies, and outreach activities to support the varying needs of family caregivers from different backgrounds.

Publications: Navaie-Waliser, M., Feldman, P.H., Gould, D.A., Levine, C., Kuerbis, A.N., and Donelan, K. 2001. “The Experiences and Challenges of Informal Caregivers: Common Themes among Whites, Blacks, and Hispanics.” The Gerontologist 41(6): 733-741.