Intercultural care for people of migrant origin with dementia – A literature analysis

Abstract

Background Close to 12 million people of migrant origin who are 65 years or older live in different European countries. In the European Union (EU) and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries, approximately half a million are estimated to have dementia. This rate is expected to increase in the coming decades. People of migrant origin who develop dementia and their families face challenges people without migration backgrounds do, but due to cultural differences, additional challenges may arise. There is an increasing need for interculturally sensitive care. There is research on certain aspects of intercultural care and this study will be a comprehensive summary of current topics in intercultural care. Research question What factors of intercultural care for people of migrant origin with dementia can be identified? What requirements and aspects are necessary to ensure intercultural care? Method A systematic literature analysis in the databases PubMed, PsycInfo and Psychology and Behavioural Sciences Collection was conducted. Findings Thirty-nine articles were eligible for analysis. Enhancement in the areas diagnostics, education and information, healthcare services and healthcare professionals to ensure intercultural care is needed. Discussion Current evidence supports the need for (a) thorough education of people of migrant origin with dementia, their families and healthcare professionals, (b) collaborations among everyone involved, (c) embracing different cultures in healthcare services, (d) the implementation of a care navigator functioning as a contact person and connecting all relevant parties with one another and (e) dementia testing suitable to the target group to ensure culturally sensitive and appropriate care for people of migrant origin with dementia and their families.