A Study of the Life Condition of Older Caregivers to their Grandchildren Orphaned due to HIV/AIDS in Kolfe Keraniyo Sub-City, Addis Ababa
No Thumbnail Available
Date
2014-09
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Addis Ababa University
Abstract
This study assesses the living conditions of older care givers to children orphaned due to HIV/AIDS in selected Woredas of Kolfe-Keraniyo Sub-City, Addis Ababa. The study employed qualitative method. In-depth interviews and focus group discussion were used as techniques of data collection. A total of 16 older care givers aged 60 and above were participants of the study. In addition, 2 representatives from MoLSA and Tesfa Social and Development Organization were participated in the study. The participants were selected using purposive sampling. The ABC-X model of family stress theory was used as a conceptual framework to guide the study. The findings of the study indicated that the high prevalence of HIV/AIDS among the younger generation in the study area and the resulting death places a huge psychological, social and economic burden on the elderly people who are caring for children orphaned due to the disease. Loss of income and resources, ill physical and health condition, stigma and discrimination and psychological distress were some of the difficulties faced by elderly people in caring for their grandchildren. This study found that elderly caregivers are using various strategies in order to cope up with the difficulties they face, though they are not providing them much help. Due to the fact that the challenges faced by older caregivers are multidimensional and complex, it is suggested that a combination of intervention strategies and approaches should be taken to reduce the vulnerability of older care givers and their families. In this regard, the researcher suggests a number of relevant areas of social work practice to address problems of the elderly care givers. Accordingly, policy responses; advocacy and awareness raising to maintain the traditional support networks, and designing and implementing participatory older people focused relevant social word interventions at micro, mezzo and macro levels are recommended.
Keywords: Older caregivers, coping, AIDS orphans, HIV and AIDS
Description
Keywords
Older Caregivers; Coping; AIDS Orphans; HIV and AIDS