An especially hidden population: sexual and gender minority dementia caregivers.

BACKGROUND

Sexual and gender minority (SGM) people are underrepresented in Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) caregiving research. This study examines potential factors associated with the health of SGM ADRD caregivers.

METHODS

A secondary analysis using data from an online survey with a sample of SGM ADRD caregivers (n = 286). Hierarchical regression models tested associations between health outcomes and socioenvironmental, stigma, and risk and protective factors.

RESULTS

Bisexual caregivers reported more stress, albeit better health than gay caregivers. Like bisexual caregivers, queer/other caregivers reported higher global health scores than gay caregivers. However, queer/other caregivers did not report significantly more stress. Transgender caregivers reported lower health scores than cisgender caregivers. Hispanic/Latino (H/L) caregivers reported worse health, but lower levels or perceived stress than non-H/Ls.

DISCUSSION: This study highlights factors associated with SGM caregivers' health, which can serve as targets for the development of caregiver supports, as well as further exploration of the unique experiences of SGM caregivers.

HIGHLIGHTS: The health of SGM ADRD caregivers varies by sexual orientation and gender identity. Bisexual caregivers reported more stress but better health than gay caregivers. Transgender caregivers reported worse health than cisgender caregivers. Hispanic/Latino (H/L) caregivers reported worse health than non-H/L caregivers.