Informal caregiving practices of men among elderly patients in Davao City

Date of Publication

2012

Document Type

Master's Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Health Social Science

College

College of Liberal Arts

Department/Unit

Behavioral Sciences

Abstract/Summary

This descriptive study aimed to understand the male primary caregiving practices, their reasons for providing care, the influence of the socio-demographic characteristics and reasons for providing care to caregiving practices. It also explored the difficulties encountered by the male caregivers and the coping strategies they employed to deal with these difficulties. Twenty (20) male informal primary caregivers in Davao City were interviewed using an interview guide. More than half of the caregivers are old, married and have at least reached college level. Most of them are sons of the patients and some are spouses. Results of the study showed that informants became the primary caregivers due to a combination of reasons ranging from their availability (e.g. being single, unemployed and have the time), capability (e.g. possession of special skills and training and resources), and their feeling of responsibility. Results further revealed that their primary caregiving practices focus on the activities of daily living and instrumental activities of daily living. These ADLs and IADLs are performed through physical activities such as changing diapers and clothes, feeding, bathing and lifting. Psycho-emotional activities such as giving companionship, encouragement, and listening are also applied. Some caregivers also perform specialized tasks which are required for patients with specific ailment, thus making them implement such tasks. The characteristics of the caregivers have made them capable of performing caregiving tasks. The older ones did more activities than the younger ones in almost all aspects of providing care, specifically with patients who had a stroke or afflicted with cancer and diabetes. The reasons for providing care also influenced the caregiving practices. The availability of the caregivers enabled them to perform the daily tasks which are routinely in nature. Those caregivers who have specialized skills were able to perform tasks which go beyond the daily routine. Caregivers who have been motivated by their commitment did well in doing tasks which enhance their relationship with their patients. Various difficulties in providing care were related to the physical activities, psycho-emotional disposition, financial management, and social limitations. Despite having these difficulties, the male primary caregivers were able to address the problems by employing different methods to solve them. Requesting physical assistance, implementing financial budgeting, seeking divine guidance and participating in social activities are coping mechanisms which the male primary caregivers have devised in order to efficiently manage their difficulties. Caregiving practices are not just confined to women. The study showed that men are also capable of providing care to their ailing elderly kin. The various caregiving practices performed by male caregivers were effectively and efficiently carried out. The study therefore showed that primary caregiving practices are not necessarily a monopoly of women. Further researches are therefore recommended to explore and the male caregiving practices not only to the ailing elderly kin but to the young ailing patients as well.

Abstract Format

html

Language

English

Format

Electronic

Accession Number

CDTG005179

Shelf Location

Archives, The Learning Commons, 12F Henry Sy Sr. Hall

Physical Description

1 computer optical disc ; 4 3/4 in.

Keywords

Male caregivers--Philippines--Davao City; Older people--Care--Philippines--Davao City; Kinship care

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