Loss as Experienced by Ugandan Grandparent-Caregivers of Children Affected by HIV/AIDS

Abstract

Despite increasing numbers of studies investigating grandparent-caregivers of children orphaned by HIV/AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa, research on their mental and physical health remains inadequate. We provide a qualitative account of the nature, extent, and relationships among multiple variations of loss emerging from 32 interviews with Ugandan grandparent-caregivers of grandchildren affected by HIV/AIDS. Regardless the type or nature of the loss, participants expressed physical, emotional, and financial distress as a result. This cumulative loss and subsequent grief could potentially be associated with mental and physical health problems. Research to further explore the concept of loss among this vulnerable population is recommended.

Keywords:

• HIV/AIDS
• loss
• Ugandan grandparent-caregivers

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Schola Matovu

Schola Matovu completed her PhD at the University of California–San Francisco, where she is currently training as a postdoctoral research scholar to further advance her research agenda. Both personal and professional experiences have prepared Dr. Matovu for her current research interest in the mental health and psychosocial well-being of older grandparent-caregivers for children who are affected by HIV/AIDS in Uganda. Her long-term goal is to continue studying ways to promote the overall quality of life and well-being of older adults, particularly those with caregiving responsibilities.

Margaret Wallhagen

Margaret Wallhagen is a professor of gerontological nursing, and director of the UCSF/John A. Hartford Center of Gerontological Nursing Excellence and Senior Nurse Scholar for the San Francisco Veterans Administration Quality Scholars program. Her research and publications focus especially on how older individuals and their families manage chronic illnesses as well as changes that occur with age. For the last several decades, she has focused especially on the impact of hearing loss on the individual and family across multiple settings.