Experiences of dementia caregivers in Pakistan

Balouch, Sara, Farina, Nicolas, Zaidi, Asghar and Willis, Rosalind (2018) Experiences of dementia caregivers in Pakistan. BSG 2018: The British Society of Gerontology 47th Annual Conference. 04 - 06 Jul 2018.

Abstract

In Pakistan there is very little awareness of dementia and its symptoms, a lack of formal services and no government policy to support the growing problem. This leads to family caregivers of people with dementia (PwD) not recognising the symptoms, delaying seeking help and being burdened by the care. Furthermore, existing knowledge and attitudes of dementia are heavily influenced by religious and cultural norms. To gain a better understanding of the perceptions of dementia and recognise gaps in services, the present study explored the experiences of family caregivers of PwD. This was part of a larger project funded by Age International in London, conducted in Pakistan about the understandings of dementia among PwD, their family caregivers, the general population, and key stakeholders. Semi-structured interviews were carried out on
20 caregivers of PwD in Lahore and Karachi. Thematic analysis was performed on interview transcripts interpreted from Urdu to English. The themes that emerged were in relation to the caregivers’ experiences, dementia knowledge,
impact of dementia on their lives, coping skills and support needed. Barriers to seeking help included a lack of awareness about dementia and its symptoms – many attributing the symptoms to stress. Family play a significant role in the care of PwD and the belief that this is the families’ duty is evident. Caregivers highlighted a need for more day centres to keep PwD active and to provide
caregivers with some respite. Campaigns to raise awareness of dementia and targeted dementia policies in Pakistan are urgently needed.

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Contributors

Author: Rosalind Willis

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