This study compared respite users with stoppers and nonusers in the Health Resources and Services Administration-funded Alzheimer's disease demonstration grant in the State of Maryland. Of those accepted into the program, only 54% participated for at least 6 months. The primary reasons for stopping were the death or institutionalization of the relative, while those not using respite services felt they didn't really need them. Determinants of program use included the poorer cognitive status of the relative and less anxiety and greater burden among the caregivers. After 6 months, users reported fewer hours of informal assistance, less burden, and that the relative had fewer behavioral problems although cognitive status and activities of daily living (ADLs) had deteriorated.

Caring for Alzheimer's patients places tremendous burdens and strain on families. This study examined the ways cultural values and norms influence the experiences of Hispanic caregivers. The results revealed relationships between attitudes toward caregiving and a sense of burden and depression among the caregivers, with depression being related to stronger adherence to norms of filial support. Factors associated with increased burden include lack of time for oneself, dependency needs of the patient, and belief that one could be doing a better job as caregiver. Problems common to other groups of caregivers--feelings of anger, relationship and financial strain, and isolation--were not apparent. Although relatives provide affective support, the burden of instrumental assistance rests on the primary caregiver. These findings, as well as a reluctance to discuss problems outside of the family, call for active social work interventions.

This study of the experiences of seventy-six Black and eighty-six Hispanic caregivers of Alzheimer's relatives sought to determine the factors characterizing the caregiving process and its outcomes, particularly personal and role strain, in each group. The findings reveal that Hispanics are more vulnerable to each type of strain and this may be partially attributed to their caring for more impaired relatives, their younger ages, and comparative lack of expressive supportive relationships. The mediating role played by culture and informal supports in the caregiving process is highlighted by the results as well as the need for the development of sensitive and appropriate interventions and supports.

The experiences of 31 Black and 19 Hispanic families caring for dementia victims at home were examined through data collected in two interviews six months apart. Caregivers'health status, mental well-being, attitudes towards caregiving, and use of informal and formal supports were measured. Data were also collected on the patient's degree of mental and physical impairment. The findings indicate that both groups maintain strong feelings of filial support for the aged and have actively involved informal support networks. Formal services are also used, although the attitudes towards them and the factors related to their use varied between the Black and Hispanic respondents. For both groups, the increased use of formal services at the second interview was related to a decrease in informal supports. Health of the caregivers did not appear to be affected although the Hispanics gave evidence of depression. The article discusses implications of these findings.