If a Family Member Develops Alzheimer’s Disease: Gender Differences in Help-Seeking Intentions Among American Indians

This study examined psychosocial factors associated with help-seeking intentions if and when a family member developed Alzheimer’s disease (AD) among American Indian populations, focusing on gender differences. Guided by Andersen’s behavioral model of health service use, predisposing, enabling, and need factors were considered as potential sources for AD help-seeking intentions. Multivariate regression analyses were conducted on a sample of 226 American Indian adults residing in South Dakota. Subjective norms and family support were positively associated with help-seeking intentions for both men and women. Gender differences emerged. American Indian women were more likely than men to intend to seek help for a family member with AD if the need arose, while self-confidence in completing medical forms was positively associated with help-seeking intentions among American Indian men only. Identifying common and gender-specific AD intervention strategies can promote timely help-seeking and improve treatment outcomes in American Indian communities.