ABSTRACT
There is silence on Namibian families who have a member with Down syndrome (DS).
Hence, research is needed regarding the experiences, stress and well-being of families who
are caregivers of a family member with Down syndrome. This is important to parents who
begin their married lives with a Down syndrome child in the family since it will provide them
with a balanced perspective of what to expect. In addition, most studies on the experiences of
caring for a Down syndrome were conducted outside the African context. No scientific
information is available regarding the experiences and well-being of families as caregivers of
Down syndrome children in Namibia. Furthermore, while studies have been carried out
regarding the experiences of caregivers by utilising the disease model, no studies could be
traced regarding the well-being of caregivers using a positive psychological paradigm.
The aim of this study was to explore the experiences and well-being of caregivers of a family
member with Down syndrome in Namibia. A qualitative research design was used. The
caregivers of children with Down syndrome were interviewed. The responses of participants
were transcribed verbatim and themes were analysed.
Various themes emerged from this study about the caregivers’ experiences and well-being
when taking care of a family member with Down syndrome. The study further revealed that
caregivers are faced with a variety of challenges such as having to dress, feed, bath and carry
around their child because of delayed motor development. Some caregivers experience
difficulties with finances, employment, differences with partners and claimed that they
receive insufficient support from their families and the community, which affects their wellbeing.
Despite the challenges and difficulties, caregivers accepted their child and learnt
through their experience compassion, humanity, patience, kindness, and forgiveness.
Ultimately caregivers endure the hard times by relying on their spiritual beliefs.
The Ministry of Health and Social Services (the planning and policy division) should plan
and implement programmes to promote the well-being of families who are giving care to a
member with Down’s syndrome. It is important that support groups be established in
Namibia to provide friendship and emotional support to the caregivers.
Byleveldt, T (2021). Exploring The Well-Being Of Caregivers Of A Family Member With Down Syndrome In Namibia. Afribary. Retrieved from https://tracking.afribary.com/works/exploring-the-well-being-of-caregivers-of-a-family-member-with-down-syndrome-in-namibia
Byleveldt, Tanya "Exploring The Well-Being Of Caregivers Of A Family Member With Down Syndrome In Namibia" Afribary. Afribary, 28 Apr. 2021, https://tracking.afribary.com/works/exploring-the-well-being-of-caregivers-of-a-family-member-with-down-syndrome-in-namibia. Accessed 06 Nov. 2024.
Byleveldt, Tanya . "Exploring The Well-Being Of Caregivers Of A Family Member With Down Syndrome In Namibia". Afribary, Afribary, 28 Apr. 2021. Web. 06 Nov. 2024. < https://tracking.afribary.com/works/exploring-the-well-being-of-caregivers-of-a-family-member-with-down-syndrome-in-namibia >.
Byleveldt, Tanya . "Exploring The Well-Being Of Caregivers Of A Family Member With Down Syndrome In Namibia" Afribary (2021). Accessed November 06, 2024. https://tracking.afribary.com/works/exploring-the-well-being-of-caregivers-of-a-family-member-with-down-syndrome-in-namibia