Presentation Title: Libraries as Care Partners: Meeting the Information Needs of Informal Caregivers of Older Adults with Dementia

Presenter(s): Marlene Lozano

Abstract: Informal caregivers of older adults with dementia are a diverse community who share the common experience of providing care for a family member or friend with dementia while not being formally trained to do so. In the United States, over 11 million people provide informal care to someone with dementia; since the annual number of new dementia cases in the U.S. is expected to double by 2050, the number of informal dementia caregivers will also see a significant increase (Alzheimer’s Association, 2023). This community’s information needs include learning about dementia as a disease, its progression and symptoms, proper patient care, and care options. Unfortunately, general healthcare providers have not been able to meet these information needs. Based on my INFO 200 research paper that looked at the information needs and information-seeking behaviors of informal caregivers of older adults with dementia, this presentation will discuss this community’s information needs and will show how libraries have already acted on national and local initiatives aimed at providing dementia friendly services and programs to this growing community.

References:

Alzheimer’s Association. (2023). Alzheimer’s disease facts and figures. Alzheimer’s & Dementia, 19(4), 1598-1695. https://doi.org/10.1002/alz.13016

Link to Recorded Presentation: https://prezi.com/v/view/lphlZBUDor88n160tztK/