Experiences and Needs in Dementia Care for Older Arab Adults: a Qualitative Study

Abstract

Introduction: In the Netherlands both dementia rates and cultural diversity are increasing. Therefore, there is an increasing need for care that is both medically appropriate and culturally responsive. Among older adults of Arab descent, informal care is deeply rooted in cultural values. However, their experiences and perspectives remain underrepresented in research. This study examines the experiences and needs of older adults of Arab descent with dementia or memory problems, specifically in relation to dementia care and communication, including conversations involving the delivery of bad news. Methods: a thematic analysis was conducted based on semi-structured interviews with Arabic-speaking older adults with either dementia or memory complaints and their caregivers, involving a total of six participants. Results: the interviews yielded 11 key themes. Participants described dementia care as burdensome, difficult to access, and not culturally appropriate. Informal caregiving was seen as a natural duty, but often led to overload. Communication with physicians—especially during the delivery of bad news—was frequently unclear due to language barriers and the absence of professional interpreters. In contrast, daycare services were experienced positively, offering structure and emotional support. Participants expressed a strong need for empathy, clear communication, and culturally sensitive care. Conclusion: dementia care for people of Arab descent in the Netherlands is misaligned with their cultural context. Professional interpreters and culturally sensitive, family-centered communication are essential for improving trust and care quality. Future research should focus on integrating these elements into dementia care models in a structural manner.