Informal Caregiving: The Lonely Road Traveled by Caregivers in Africa

Abstract

Individuals with chronic illnesses, disabilities, or aging-related conditions often rely on informal caregivers, typically family members or relatives. This role is frequently taken on by women who are unprepared, untrained, unpaid, and have other family commitments. The physical, social, financial, and emotional burdens of caregiving can lead to sadness, anger, resentment, and frustration, resulting in reduced quality of life, depression, and loneliness. This chapter explores the implications of informal caregiving, focusing on caregivers’ loneliness and its determinants. Loneliness manifests as depression, anxiety, hypertension, and a decline in quality of life, contributing to feelings of being unheard and unappreciated. Key determinants of loneliness include personal attributes such as gender, family circumstances, employment status, financial obligations, and education level. Strategies to manage loneliness include respite care, self-care behaviors, recognition, and spirituality. In the African context, cultural expectations and the conflict between traditional and modern values exacerbate these issues. The lack of governmental support places a heavy burden on caregivers to meet all the needs of those they care for. This chapter underscores the crucial role of family and community in providing necessary care and support to caregivers, enabling them to offer optimal care.