An investigation of the challenges and coping mechanisms of home-based caregivers for patients living with HIV in Mamelodi

Abstract

HIV/AIDS is a global challenge and its impact is evident. This places a burden on hospitals and health professionals. To ease this burden there are home-based care programmes which, through home-based caregivers, provide patients living with HIV/AIDS with physical and palliative care. However, these HBCGs face various challenges such as poverty, discrimination and stigma when caring for PALHIV, and their own emotional strain, which becomes burdensome without sufficient support from the home-based care centre. The qualitative study undertaken investigates the challenges and coping mechanisms of the HBCGs. Thirteen research participants were drawn from a centre in Mamelodi. Data was gathered through interviews and observations, categorised into themes and analysed. Major findings revealed that social challenges faced by HBCGs include poverty, stigmatisation and discrimination. Emotions experienced by HBCGs include guilt, anger, hopelessness, but they have spiritual reliance through prayer as one of their coping mechanisms.