An investigative study of the caregivers experiences in caring for the elderly

While care-giving is a common topic, very few studies have been done on the experiences of caregivers in caring for the elderly in South Africa. This study focused on the subjective experiences of the caregivers caring for the elderly in one of the old age homes called La Gratitude in KwaZulu-Natal in a town called Newcastle, just under Km 400 north of the University of Zululand. This research study adopted qualitative research methods, although it also integrated elements of a quantitative approach. The study used non-random sampling techniques, in particular purposive sampling. The purposive sample of eight caregivers was selected from the old age home caregiver population. These caregivers’ ages ranged from age 28 to 39 years. The General Health Questionnaire and structured interviews were the tools used for the purpose of collecting the data. Content analysis was used for analyzing data in the present study. The research finding of this study indicated that even though there are challenges in the caregiving job; however the majority of the caregivers experienced the job of caring for the elderly as rewarding and enjoyable.

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

University of Zululand

Year dc:date.issued

2011

Author dc:creator

• Ngubeni, Portia Ntokozo

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Thwala, J.D.

• Caregivers -- South Africa

Licence

• https://devspace.unizulu.ac.za/bitstreams/708ff0f1-079f-41ed-b64d-09ce76a319ba/download