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Abstract
An assessment of the needs and problems of caregivers of HIV infected persons in urban Zimbabwe
Mungazi G.1, Phirii T.2
Objectives: As a nation, Zimbabwe’s response to HIV and AIDS is focusing on the care and support of those infected and affected with HIV. This paper seeks to assess the problems and needs of caregivers and suggests ways of addressing the problems and needs.
Methods: The findings presented are based on a study carried out in the province of Harare. Data collected is from the qualitative phase of the study where in depth interviews, focus group discussions and key informant interviews were conducted.
Results: Results show that those caring for the infected through various stages of illness are subject to severe emotional and mental trauma as they care for their loved ones. They face stigma and discrimination from other family members and the society. In addition, they face huge financial burdens as well as psychological trauma with no support from society and family, which leads to emotional burnout. Wives caring for their sick husbands are themselves positive and are traumatized by the effect of the disease as they watch their loved ones die. Those women stay in fear of loosing a home to stay in after their husbands die. Of most importance is the fact that caregivers interviewed showed poor knowledge on infection control, nutrition, personal and environmental hygiene.
Conclusions: Data indicate that needs of caregivers should be considered especially the ageing caring for the children and wives caring for their dying husbands. Community mobilization involving youth and friends to share the responsibility to ease the burden of caregivers, having support groups of caregivers, would go a long way in preventing frustrations and burnout while education programmes needs to be developed mainly to address infection control and nutrition.
4th IAS Conference on HIV Pathogenesis, Treatment and Prevention
Abstract no.
CDB419
Suggested Citation
"MungaziG., et al.
An assessment of the needs and problems of caregivers of HIV infected persons in urban Zimbabwe.
:
4th IAS Conference on HIV Pathogenesis, Treatment and Prevention:
Abstract no.
CDB419"
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