Peter A. Lichtenberg, PhD
Wayne State University
Detroit, Michigan

2003 Investigator-Initiated Research Grant

Making the decision to move an individual with dementia into a long term care facility is never easy. Studies suggest that the process can be especially stressful and difficult for African-Americans, and that these caregivers may have an increased likelihood of losing their connection to the person with dementia after placement.

In this study, researchers will compare the experiences of two groups of African-American caregivers during the transition to long term care. One group will receive peer mentoring to supplement the customary support and services provided during the process. The investigators will explore whether the peer mentoring may have a beneficial effect on the frequency and quality of post-placement visits and reduce caregiver stress and depression. The investigators will also evaluate mentors’ level of satisfaction with the program and whether it reduces stress and depression for them. In addition, researchers will assess whether the mentoring program affects the functioning of the individual with dementia. If successful, peer mentoring could become a model for a program that could benefit African-American caregivers nationwide.