Family caregivers of individuals with dementia (PWD) bear a substantial caregiving burden, often facing challenges related to their own health and well-being. Within the United States, Korean and Chinese American family caregivers of PWD represent two significant Asian immigrant populations, each encountering unique caregiving challenges influenced by their cultural backgrounds. However, existing research and policy practices have often overlooked their unique challenges, perpetuating the “model minority” stereotype. Thus, we aim to understand cultural influences in dementia care from the perspectives of Chinese and Korean caregivers to inform culturally sensitive support for caregivers in Asian immigrant populations.

Our group conducted a study that was part of a broader project to inform the cultural adaptation of the NYU Caregiver Intervention-Enhanced Support (NYUCI-ES) program specifically for Chinese and Korean American caregivers managing multiple chronic conditions. In 2022, we conducted interviews with 14 Chinese and 11 Korean caregivers residing in the New York Metropolitan Area. We employed content analysis as the primary methodological approach to systematically examine the qualitative data gathered from interviews. This rigorous analytical technique allowed us to organize and interpret the rich and diverse narratives provided by our interviewees, enabling us to identify recurring themes and patterns within the interview transcripts.

Our analysis of these interviews unveiled specific findings regarding the impact of cultural beliefs on their perspectives of dementia and caregiving, their utilization of social and family support networks, and their comprehension of self-care strategies and counseling services. For example, both Chinese and Korean caregivers, regardless of acculturation levels, expressed a deep sense of duty rooted in filial piety, viewing the care of their parents with Alzheimer’s Disease Related Dementias (ADRD) as a cultural obligation. Additionally, most participants from both groups exhibited limited understanding of the concept of "self-care" in the Western sense. Furthermore, our study highlighted the novel challenges caregivers faced during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, offering insights into the potential applications of technology and telehealth to aid them in caregiving responsibilities and enhance support coordination.

This presentation highlights the profound influence of cultural factors on caregiving experiences and support-seeking behaviors in these Asian American subgroups. Findings from this research will underscore the importance of tailoring interventions to align with these specific cultural and linguistic needs.