Barriers to Dementia Care in BAME Communities: A Conversation with Dr Hannah Hussain, UK

Episode Summary:

In this thought-provoking episode of the Dementia Caregivers Corner Podcast, host Juliah is joined by Dr Hannah Hussain, a Health Economist at the Office of Health Economics in London. Dr Hussain, who holds a PhD in health economics from the University of Sheffield and is a qualified pharmacist, shares her insights into the challenges that Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities face in accessing dementia care.

From cultural stigma and late diagnoses to language barriers and the overlooked role of unpaid carers, this episode dives deep into the structural and social factors that limit access to timely and culturally sensitive dementia support. Dr Hussain also highlights the importance of inclusive research and culturally competent care homes in addressing these disparities.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Barriers to dementia diagnosis and care in BAME communities
• Economic impact of unpaid caregiving on families and the healthcare system
• The need for culturally competent dementia services and inclusive research

Key Takeaways:

1. Cultural stigma and expectations in BAME communities can discourage families from seeking formal dementia care, contributing to late diagnoses and hidden burdens.
2. Unpaid carers in BAME households save the NHS substantial costs but often lack adequate support and recognition.
3. Culturally competent care and language access are essential for improving dementia services for diverse communities.

Resources Mentioned

https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-challenges-of-dementia-care-for-ethnic-minorities-in-the-uk/

https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-coping-with-distress-the-strength-of-caregivers/

https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-the-economics-of-dementia/