The voices of family caregivers of older Nigerian adults with chronic illness at home: their experience using a qualitative approach.

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Jika, Barbara, Khan, Hafiz T.A. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1817-3730 and Lawal, Muili ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1502-3884 (2025) The voices of family caregivers of older Nigerian adults with chronic illness at home: their experience using a qualitative approach. Journal of Population Ageing. pp. 1-16. ISSN 1874-7884

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Abstract

Family caregivers are essential in providing at-home care for loved ones who suffer from long-term illnesses. Sadly, unpaid caregivers do not get adequate assistance. Caretakers thus bear a heavy financial, emotional, and physical load that may be detrimental to their health. This qualitative study investigates the experiences of family caregivers in Benue State, Nigeria, providing at-home care for older adults with chronic illnesses. A phenomenological study using a purposive sample of 36 family caregivers was utilised. Twelve individuals were in each focus group, and twelve in-depth interviews were conducted. Data was analysed using thematic analysis. The study found that caregivers have an unofficial network of friends, family, religious organizations, and community groups. The study also highlighted the need for additional support systems to complement existing social support groups. Future research should explore the perspectives of policy implementers, healthcare providers, and community and religious leaders to better understand the needs of family caregivers.

Item Type:	Article
Identifier:	10.1007/s12062-025-09488-7
Additional Information:	This version of the article has been accepted for publication, after peer review (when applicable) and is subject to Springer Nature’s AM terms of use, but is not the Version of Record and does not reflect post-acceptance improvements, or any corrections. The Version of Record is available online at:https://doi.org/10.1007/s12062-025-09488-7
Keywords:	Family caregivers, Thematic Analysis, older adults, Nigeria and chronic illness
Subjects:	Medicine and health
Depositing User:	Hafiz Khan
Date Deposited:	18 Jun 2025 09:55
Last Modified:	23 Jun 2025 13:15
URI:	https://repository.uwl.ac.uk/id/eprint/13794
Sustainable Development Goals:	Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being

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The voices of family caregivers of older Nigerian adults with chronic illness at home: their experience using a qualitative approach.

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