Impact of State-Level Metrics of Equity on Psychosocial Outcomes for Sexual and Gender Minority Caregivers of People Living With Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias

PURPOSE: We examined the relationship between state-level equity scores as it relates to protections and supports of sexual and gender minority (SGM) individuals at the state level and psychosocial caregiving outcomes among SGM caregivers of people living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD). METHOD: Data collected from SGM caregivers of people with ADRD were combined with publicly available state-level equity scores. We used mixed linear models to examine the relationships between equity scores and levels of family quality of life and depressive symptoms. RESULTS: SGM caregivers living in low-equity states experienced significantly more microaggressions, poorer family quality of life, and greater levels of caregiver stigma and depressive symptoms. Equity score was a significant predictor of family quality of life. CONCLUSION: Future research to understand the influence of the policy context in which SGM caregivers live is needed to create tailored supports to promote their well-being.