Dissertations, Theses, and Capstone Projects

Date of Degree

9-2026

Document Type

Doctoral Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy

Program

Psychology

Advisor

Desiree Byrd, Ph.D.

Committee Members

Casey LaDuke, Ph.D.

Laura Rabin, Ph.D.

Vasundhara Kalasapudi, M.D.

Tina Sadarangani, Ph.D., RN, ANP-C, GNP-BC

Subject Categories

Clinical Psychology | Multicultural Psychology

Keywords

dementia literacy, South Asian seniors, ADRD risk, cardiovascular health, psychosocial determinants, CBPR

Abstract

Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD) pose significant health challenges globally, with South Asian seniors in the United States facing elevated risks due to high rates of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and limited health literacy. This study assessed dementia literacy and the prevalence of cardiovascular, psychosocial, and lifestyle risk factors among South Asian seniors in New York City, utilizing community-based participatory research (CBPR) principles in collaboration with India Home, a community-based organization. Fifty-six (N=56) South Asian seniors aged 55 and older (M = 69.05, SD = 6.36), primarily of Indian or Bangladeshi origin, participated in the study. Data collection involved a modified South Asian Pandemic Needs Assessment (SAPNA) survey and an adapted Alzheimer’s Disease Knowledge Scale (ADKS) to evaluate dementia literacy, incorporating culturally relevant questions on aging, memory loss, and caregiving. Surveys were administered live with multilingual support to address accessibility needs. Findings revealed low dementia literacy relative to normative scores, with prevalent misconceptions, such as cognitive decline being viewed as a normal part of aging. Participants reported high rates of diabetes, hypertension, loneliness, and low physical activity, but no significant correlations were observed between dementia literacy and these ADRD risk factors. Trends suggested lower dementia literacy among older participants and those with less education, while females reported higher psychosocial risks, such as loneliness and depression. Qualitative data highlighted cultural beliefs about aging and memory loss, underscoring the need for culturally and linguistically tailored interventions. This study emphasizes the importance of developing validated dementia literacy tools in South Asian languages and implementing community-specific strategies to address cultural and systemic barriers, ultimately improving health outcomes for this underserved population.

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