Perceptions of dementia, caregiving, and help-seeking among recent Vietnamese immigrants

Using qualitative methods, perceptions of dementia, caregiving, and help-seeking were obtained from three groups of Vietnamese immigrants — adult men, adult women, and youth — and from Vietnamese American professionals working with or studying this cultural group. Vietnamese culture and the history of immigration for Vietnamese Americans help explain and contextualize these perceptions. Of interest to practitioners are: (1) the importance of hierarchy within the family and the community, (2) the low priority of dementia and eldercare in a list of problems facing this group, (3) the variety of Vietnamese words and phrases that can be used to describe symptoms associated with mental illness and dementia, and (4) a willingness to use services. Findings can be used to increase the cultural competence of workers and services for Vietnamese Americans.

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