Psycho-social experiences and coping among caregivers of people living with HIV/AIDS in the North-West province of South Africa

Abstract

This study examined psycho-social experiences and coping among caregivers of people living with HIV/AIDS in the North West Province of South Africa. Using a cross-sectional survey design and non-probability purposive sampling method, 728 participants were surveyed. Data were collected using self-developed, validated scales for coping and caregivers’ challenging experiences. Results showed no significant gender difference in coping. Employment status had a significant influence on coping, with the employed coping significantly better than the unemployed. Marital status did not significantly predict coping among caregivers. Caregivers who did not receive food support coped less well with the challenges of caregiving. Caregivers who did not perceive that they had financial challenges, challenges of meeting medical demands of relatives, or the challenge of the fear of death of relatives (respectively) were more likely to cope better with the stress of caring for people living with HIV/AIDS. Caregivers face a number of psycho-social challenges, and it is recommended that policy makers, non-government organizations and healthcare providers review their programmes to assist in addressing psycho-social challenges in this context.