Exploring the experiences of South African Hindu families caring for an individual diagnosed with Dementia of the Alzheimer’s Type

Abstract

The aim of this study was to identify, explore, and develop an understanding into the lives of Hindu families who live with and provide informal care for a Dementia of Alzheimer’s type patient that is a relative, residing within South Africa. This study provides literature and data for Hindu families, in order to understand their experiences. The study was adapted according to Kenneth Gergen’s Social Constructionist Theory and Urie Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological System’s Theory model, which was utilised within the study to explore the systemic impact of Hinduism on Dementia of Alzheimer’s type patients. The study adopted a purposive-sampling method to recruit a homogenous sample set of eight participants for the study. The researcher conducted face-to-face and virtual interviews using a semi-structured approach to obtain data. The data obtained from the study was analysed using Braun and Clarke’s Thematic Analysis in order to identify reoccurring themes across the literature. Findings reveal that caregiving involves significant emotional, physical, and psychological challenges, including role reversals and lifestyle adjustments. Hindu beliefs, such as karma, reincarnation, and filial duty, shaped how caregivers understood the disorder and approached care, serving as both a moral obligation and coping mechanism. Participants also reported caregiver burnout, social isolation, and barriers to formal healthcare. The study highlights the influence of cultural and spiritual factors on Dementia care and highlights the need for targeted support and culturally sensitive interventions for informal caregivers.