Unsung Heroes: An Overview of the Informal Caregivers in the Gulf Cooperation Council – A Scoping Review and Thematic Analysis

Abstract

Introduction: Informal caregivers (ICs), usually family or friends providing unpaid care, offer emotional and psychological support and personalized care and help navigate healthcare systems, improving health outcomes. They reduce healthcare costs by decreasing the need for professional care services, which is essential in today’s healthcare systems strained by aging populations and chronic diseases. Even though the challenges faced by ICs are well known, there is surprisingly little research on this topic within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, a region where caregiving is deeply rooted in Islamic cultural practices. This study aimed to map the current state of research on ICs in the GCC. The objectives include identifying key themes in the literature, highlighting gaps, and providing insights that can inform the development of targeted interventions and policies amidst ongoing socioeconomic changes and demographic shifts, specifically the increase in elderly populations, and healthcare reforms. Methods: This study employed a scoping review and thematic analysis following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. A comprehensive search of PubMed, ScienceDirect, and ProQuest Psychology databases identified articles 25 published between January 2010 and November 2023. Results: Out of 2,055 articles, only 44 were included, with the majority conducted in Saudi Arabia. They identified four key challenges faced by ICs: high levels of stress and anxiety, limited access to formal support systems, reliance on informal coping mechanisms, and significant socioeconomic impacts. The health services available were underutilized, with a notable gap in support for caregivers. Conclusion: The study underscores the critical challenges faced by ICs in the GCC, particularly in terms of mental health and access to support systems. These findings advocate for the development of targeted interventions and policies to better support this underserved population.