Assessing the Relationship between Caregivers Burden and Availability of Support for Family Caregivers’ of HIV/AIDS Patients in Calabar, South East Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the level of burden and the extent of support on family caregivers of people living with AIDS (PLWHA) in Calabar, South East Nigeria. Methods: A mixed method with cross sectional approach was used. Purposive sampling technique guided the recruitment process and data collection methods included, semi-structured questionnaires and focusing group discussion. 260 respondents participated in the study. The quantitative data were mined with the aid of SPSS and the qualitative data were analysed with the aid of NVivo8 using thematic analysis. Results: Results indicated high level of burden with limited support to caregivers. A Chi-square value of 25.1 was obtained at P < 0.05, suggesting a significant relationship between availability of support and caregivers burden. This relationship was supported by the themes of physical, social, emotional and financial burden for the caregivers. Similarly, information on coping skills, emotional support, financial assistance and help with caregiving themes emerged for social support. Conclusion: In Nigeria, the burden of caring for HIV/AIDS patients has a remarkable impact on family caregivers. This calls for the development of policies that can systematically address the needs of family caregivers in order to ameliorate the negative consequences of caregiving for PLWHA.

Family caregivers' perceptions and experiences regarding caring for older adults with chronic diseases

“…Therefore, Ramugondo and Kronenberg 39 emphasise the importance of collective occupations whereby humans work together to enhance their relationship and capabilities in caring occupations. This is consistent with Asuquo et al's 40 view that providing information and training to family caregivers could assist them in their caring role. Additionally, this finding corroborates previously reported findings that highlighted the importance of involving government and non-governmental officials in improving the role of support groups in promoting the health, well-being and quality of life of older people and family caregivers 41 .…”

The Exceptional Role of Women as Primary Caregivers for People Living with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria, West Africa

“…Unlike formal caregivers, informal caregivers may not have stipulated time period for caring and are often required to perform multiple task both planned and unplanned for the day with progressive increase in activities over time which induces burden [10,11]. A study affirmed the disparity between men and women caregiving involvement with changing demographics and suggested the need for more male involvement in order to reduce caregiving burden on women [30,33].…”

“…Studies reveal that family remains the primary entity in caring for individuals, through which socialization, trust, loyalty and inter-family cooperation develops, and many counts on these attributes in adverse health condition [8,9]. These attributes attracts afflicted members and act as a succor especially during terminal stage of HIV with co-morbidities [9,10]. Caregiving although a normative role, is assumed most often by people without preparation or questioning even though it may disrupt work, family and social life of the caregivers.…”

“…As the number of people living with HIV/AIDS increases, the demand for family members who assume caregiving role increases [11]. Moreover without appropriate restructuring of existing role to accommodate new caregiving roles, the increase in responsibility may constitute burden, which is detrimental to the caregiver's health as well as quality of care rendered to the care recipient [10][11][12].…”

Challenges Encountered by Family Caregivers of Prostate Cancer Patients: A Qualitative Inquiry

“…Also, providing care to a sick family member is a tradition embedded in African culture. It is regarded as an age-old act of kindness, love and loyalty which binds family members together (16). Cultural norms and values have a substantial effect on how caregivers perceive their own caregiving experiences and their roles as caregivers (17).…”