Factors related to cognitive performance among black caregivers of persons living with a chronic illness: An exploratory study.

ABSTRACT

This study investigated factors associated with cognitive performance among Black caregivers of persons living with two chronic conditions dementia or cancer. Fifty-six Black caregivers of people living with dementia or cancer were recruited from clinic and community sources. Variables measured included depression, anxiety, stress, sleep, fatigue, and caregiver burden. Cognitive performance was assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Descriptive statistics and non-parametric analyses were conducted to identify factors related to MoCA scores. Caregivers were 58.3 years of age and predominantly female. The average MoCA score was 25.23. Gender and education, along with positive appraisal of caregiving were significantly associated with cognitive performance. Several other factors approached significance including cohabitation with the care recipient, fatigue, and stress due to perceived individual and institutional racism. Our findings suggest several factors that warrant further investigation for understanding the relationship between caregiving and cognitive performance in Black caregivers of people living with cancer or dementia.