Intersecting Narratives in the Lives of Black Women Aging with Dementia

Abstract

Despite elevated risk profiles for dementia, Black women are often absent in cultural narratives about dementia. This paper explores how considering multiple and intersectional cultural narratives might advance dementia research and benefit overlooked groups and communities. Using person-centered research approaches to understand the experiences of older Black women at risk for dementia may highlight conditions contributing to elevated risk, including economic precarity, racism, and caregiving responsibilities. A full recognition of cultural narratives about dementia informs better social policy, research, and practice.