A thematic analysis of Lay knowledge and beliefs about dementia among first-generation Black African immigrants from West Africa living in London: Informed by a grounded theory approach

Abstract

Background: Many Black Africans live in the UK. More than 850,000 people live with dementia in the UK, and more than 25,000 people with dementia are from Black and minority ethnic groups. The study explores themes of lay knowledge and beliefs about dementia. Design and Methods: This study employs a qualitative research design and methods to explore lay knowledge and beliefs about dementia amongst Black African populations living in London. The research is philosophically underpinned by social constructionism and sociological and anthropological lay concepts of health and illness. The researcher interviewed 31 adult respondents, male and female, from the Black African community in London to generate rich data. Participants were first-generation immigrants from West Africa living in London and were mainly carers. Thematic data analysis informed by a grounded theory approach was used to analyse the data. Results: The findings show that dementia is a complex biopsychosocial phenomenon. Four key themes with subthemes emerged and were developed: (i) Traditional views, (ii) Disease and illness, (iii) Help-seeking, and (iv) Caregiving and treatment. The group’s understanding of dementia evolved from traditional views to a more medical perspective. This study added witchcraft to the dementia literature on BAME in the UK. Conclusions: The study concluded that the group does not lack knowledge of dementia. Their understanding and beliefs about dementia are evolving, and further efforts are needed to enhance awareness through education, training, and outreach to support individuals with dementia and their families within the Black African community.