Experience of Rural Family Caregivers for Older Adults in Co-Residential Family Care Arrangements in Central Ethiopia: Motives of Family Caregivers in Reciprocal Relationship

Abstract

PurposeThis study aimed to describe the experience of rural family caregivers’ motive to care for older adults in rural Ethiopia.MethodsWe used a descriptive phenomenological study method. Data from semi-structured interviews with purposively sampled caregivers were inductively coded and developed into themes. Mechanisms were used to increase the trustworthiness of the study.ResultsThe main theme that emerged from the data as motives for caregiving for rural older adults are traditional norms of filial responsibility and indebtedness, religious values, quality of a relationship, and older adults’ reciprocity materially, in knowledge, work sharing, and emotional companionship.ConclusionThere is no single motive among family caregivers that initiate co-residential caregiving for older adults. Multiple motives of obligation, altruism, religious values, emotional attachment, economic motive, and reciprocity of care have contributed to co-residential family care.RecommendationStrengthening the capacity of family caregivers through training and economic support to care for older adults should be emphasized. Early child-parent relationships and religious values should get attention from family practitioners and policymakers.