Factors affecting cognitive dysfunction screening for Latinx adults with type 2 diabetes

Aim

To examine influences on screening of Latinx adults with type 2 diabetes for cognitive problems by identifying patient-, clinician-, and clinic-level factors.

Methods

This was a mixed methods study consisting of semi-structured interviews with Latinx adults with type 2 diabetes (n = 30; mean age = 68; 57% Mexican American) and surveys and interviews with health care providers (n = 15) in Central Texas. Data were examined with thematic analysis (interviews) and descriptive statistics (surveys and inventories).

Results

For the interviewed patients, screening was important, but inability to work related to a possible diagnosis of dementia was a concern. Both providers and patients agreed that other health issues (e.g., hyperglycemia) took precedence over cognitive screening. Providers (96.7%) were expected to screen patients but lacked clinic support and time; they relied on patients for initial prompts. Only one clinic required staff education on cognitive screening, with an emphasis on potential cultural differences in test results and adequate resources related to dementia for Latinx adults.

Conclusions

Clinics serving Latinx adults have a responsibility to deliver appropriate care. Leadership should consider innovative practices such as the creation, with patients, of educational materials for screening—a need highlighted by most participants.