The well-being of elderly black caregivers and noncaregivers: A preliminary study

Some studies have indicated that African-Americans are better adjusted in d ealing with caregiving responsibilities, and experience less depression and greater satisfaction in the caregiving role than do their White counterpar ts. However, research comparing the well-being of Black caregivers and thei r Black noncaregiving counterparts has been minimal. Therefore, we compared 10 Black spousal caregivers of dementia patients and 19 Black noncaregiver s and found no difference in the levels of happiness and depression between the two groups. Vignettes describing the participants' use of religion and informal support support the contention that effective coping strategies m ay contribute to Black caregivers' ability to handle their role.