Understanding the lived experiences of family caregivers of individuals with dementia in Soweto, a South African Township.

ABSTRACT: This study was undertaken to understand South African family caregivers' lived experiences of individuals living with dementia in a predominantly Black African township. A homogenous sample of thirty family caregivers was recruited using purposeful sampling methods and interviewed using a semi-structured approach. Reflective Thematic Analysis (RTA) yielded four broad themes: Understanding Dementia, Struggles and Sacrifice, Mental Health and Protective Factors. Findings reflect how dementia is understood by family caregivers and their community, the struggles and sacrifices that they endure, the impact of caregiving on caregiver mental health and the protective factors that enable caregivers to cope, despite their difficulties. Our findings lead to new insights regarding dementia car

SUBMITTER: Mahomed A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9606014 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature