A latent class analysis of instrumental activities of daily living for Mexican American caregiver health.

Abstract

Background and objectives: Mexican American caregivers often face time-intensive responsibilities; however, studies examining the diverse caregiving needs within this group remain limited. This study (1) utilizes latent class analysis (LCA) to classify caregivers based on care recipient instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) care needs and (2) examines caregiver psychological outcomes by care recipient support needs.

Research design and methods: Data from the Hispanic Established Populations for the Epidemiologic Study of the Elderly (Wave 7, N = 888) were analyzed using LCA. Characteristics of caregivers and care recipients were included as predictors to identify latent classes of IADL care needs, and caregivers' perceived stress, depression, and overall life satisfaction were investigated as outcomes.

Results: Mexican American caregivers were classified into four distinct groups based on the care recipient IADL care needs: comprehensive (38%), social task (29%), minimal (23%), and physical mobility only (10%). Care recipients' cognitive functioning, nativity status, and caregiver homeownership status were associated with the IADL latent classes. Caregivers providing comprehensive assistance reported the highest perceived stress, while those assisting with social tasks had the lowest perceived stress. Depressive symptoms were more prevalent among caregivers assisting with comprehensive needs or physical mobility-related IADLs, whereas caregiver life satisfaction did not have significant differences.

Discussion and implications: Caregiving needs, especially for physical mobility and comprehensive care, are associated with a greater psychological burden for caregivers. Targeted, culturally competent interventions aimed at improving the mental health of Mexican American caregivers should address the unique challenges with mobility and comprehensive care needs.