Mental Health Experiences of Hispanic and Latinx ADRD Caregivers

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Project Summary/Abstract Hispanic and Latinx (H&L) family caregivers of individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRDs) are uniquely at risk for poor mental health outcomes due to increased stress associated with earlier ADRD onset and increased severity of symptoms among the H&L population. While the link between caregiving- related stress and health outcomes is well-documented among the general ADRD caregiver population, limited knowledge on dynamic predictors of H&L ADRD caregiver mental health trajectories exists. Further, the interactions between risk/protective and cultural factors that increase resilience and reduce the risk of poor mental health outcomes over time are relatively unknown. The purpose of this study is to investigate how interactions between contextual, individual-level, and cultural factors impact daily and long-term patterns of depression and anxiety symptoms among H&L caregivers. Using an innovative, multi-time scale design and analytical strategy grounded in resilience theory, we will examine intra-individual variability (e.g., fluctuations in daily experiences) and inter-individual differences (e.g., variations within distinct groups such as those with high levels of acculturation vs. those with low levels) and possible relationships among them. We will use multilevel modeling and group-based trajectory modeling to test the hypothesis that contextual, individual-level, and cultural factors interact to impact daily and long-term patterns of mental health outcomes among H&L ADRD caregivers. To test this hypothesis, we propose the following aims: (1) to examine contextual, individual-level, and cultural factors that impact the day-to-day mental health experiences of H&L ADRD caregivers; (2) to characterize mental health developmental trajectories among H&L ADRD caregivers using group-based trajectory modeling, and (3) to determine risk/protective factors and mental health trajectories that predict distal health outcomes among H&L ADRD caregivers. Results from this study will inform a dynamic framework of H&L ADRD caregiver mental health by identifying modifiable intervention targets associated with resilience over time. This study represents a critical step forward in developing effective, culturally sensitive interventions to support the health and well-being of H&L ADRD caregivers who are underrepresented and underserved in the field of aging.