Coping Strategies of Caregivers of HIV/AIDS Orphans in Ward 15 Bikita District, Masvingo Province, Zimbabwe

Abstract

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to investigate the coping strategies of caregivers of HIV/AIDS orphans. Methods: A descriptive study design was used with a convenience sample of 30 orphan caregivers in Bikita province ward 15, Masvingo, Zimbabwe. Permission to carry out the study was obtained from the respective ethical review boards. Informed consent was obtained from all the participants. Data was collected using face to face interviews following a structured questionnaire. Results: The main findings were that 73.3% of the respondents were elderly caregivers and that there were more widows 20 (66%) than married caregivers, 8 (27%). Being old meant that these caregivers needed to be taken care of themselves. They needed additional information on caring for the young nowadays which is different to what they experienced. About 24 (80%) caregivers had financial problems yet all the caregivers needs require money. Conclusions: Growing of vegetables, maize and selling any surplus was the main coping strategy of orphan caregivers. The main coping strategy is working of the orphan caregivers; however there is need of providing vocational skills and income generating projects by the authorities in the community.