Kawaida Theory and the Nguzo Saba: African-centered Caregiving for the Elders

Abstract

There is limited research on culturally sensitive interventions to support African American caregivers of elderly relatives. This qualitative research study explores caregiving among twenty African American professional and managerial women baby boomers caring for older parents. Study findings generate a culturally relevant, African-centered caregiving perspective to add to the literature on caregiving. Study results support the application of Nguzo Saba principles – Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity), and Imani (Faith) to African American caregiving practices. The knowledge generated from this study has implications for social work interventions with individuals, groups, and communities to support African American caregivers.