This article provides qualitative findings from a community-based, mixed-method study of African American caregivers of elders. Using constant comparative analysis of 21 in-depth interviews, investigators explored the reciprocal, interactive influence between caregiving and religion or spirituality. Findings suggested that participants perceived their approach to care as a personal ministry. Analysis of the core category of Caregiving as Ministry identified four characteristics of the participant's care approach: (a) caregiving is an honor and a blessing, (b) caregiving is my identity, (c) caregiving is sustained by a personal relationship with God, and (d) caregiving is a higher calling from God. The article concludes with three implications for direct and community-based social work practice.
IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE •The role of religion and/or spirituality for caregivers should be recognized and appreciated, thus avoiding problematizing or pathologizing this key resource.• There is potential for posttraumatic growth among caregivers, even in the midst of dealing with caregiving stressors.• Social workers can work collaboratively with congregations and religiously affiliated organizations to develop relevant and culturally sensitive support systems for caregivers.
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