HIV/AIDS and Its Impact on the Traditional Support Networks of the Elderly: The Case of Arada Sub City In Addis Ababa
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Date
2006-06
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to assess and analyze the consequences HIV/AIDS on the
traditional support networks of the elderly in Arada sub-city. The study focuses on
assessing the impact of HIV/AIDS on the traditional support networks of the elderly;
problems, aggravating factors and coping mechanisms of older people; and policy
responses and the existing practices to address problems of older people. The methodology
of the study was qualitative where primary and secondary sources of data were used. To
collect the necessary data, the researcher employed key informant interview, focus group
discussion, semi-structured interview, observation, in-depth interview and document
analysis as major techniques. In this regard, interview guides, topical outlines, and
observation checklists have been used. In the course of analysis, family care giving,
community care and support through its institutions, supports of religious institutions,
alms giving, and sporadic initiatives by associations and private enterprises have been
identified as traditional support networks of the elderly. Lack of basic needs; financial
constraints; age related health problems; psychosocial stress and trauma; social
exclusions; etc are the major problems of older people. Whereas, poverty, lack attention,
absence of social security, death of children from AIDS, the myths and misconception
related to aging and lack of elderly-targeted programs are the identified aggravating
factors. HIV/AIDS is affecting the traditional support networks of the elderly in a variety of
ways. It was concluded that though it is difficult to figure out the number of older people
infected/affected by the epidemic. HIV/AIDS is changing the roles of the elderly from being
the recipient of care to providers of care and support. In this regard, the researcher
suggests a number of relevant areas of social work practice to address problems of the
elderly. Accordingly, policy responses; advocacy and awareness raising to maintain the
traditional support networks, and designing and implementing participatory older peoplefocused
relevant social word interventions at micro, mezzo and macro levels are
recommended
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Social Work