The Lived Experiences of Indonesian Caregivers in Caring for Older Adult Stroke Survivors in Taiwan: A Phenomenological Study

Abstract

Background: Changing social and economic structures of an aging society have resulted in the growing demand for foreign caregivers (‘paid migrant workers who provide in-home help to aging adults) among families in many developed countries, including Taiwan. However, less documented and understood is how these caregivers perceive their roles and responsibilities. This study aimed to describe the lived experiences of Indonesian caregivers, the largest migrant working population in Taiwan. Findings of this study may help guide policy and practice reform to better support the needs of foreign caregivers and further improve the quality of care. Methods: This qualitative study was informed by a phenomenological approach. In-depth interviews were conducted with 20 female Indonesian caregivers (mean age: 36 years) providing care for community-dwelling older stroke survivors (≥65 years) in Taiwan. Data were transcribed verbatim and interpreted by the research team using thematic analysis. Methodological rigor was attained through peer debriefing, triangulation, audit trails, and member checking. Results: The main themes derived from the data included: caregivers’ background, preferences and values, supports to survivors, and consequences of caregiving (challenges and benefits). Conclusion: Foreign caregivers provide a variety of supports to older stroke survivors in Taiwan and are crucial to their recovery. However, differences in cultures and values between caregivers and the survivors may lead to challenges in caregiving and negative health outcomes of caregivers. Information gleaned from this study can help inform the development of long-term services and supports policies in countries that have an increasing demand for foreign caregivers.



Author Information
Feng-Hang Chang, Taipei Medical University, Taiwan
Yosika Mauludina, Taipei Medical University, Taiwan
Christina Kustanti, Bethesda Yakkum Health Science Institute, Indonesia
Beth Fields, University of Wisconsin-Madison, United States

Paper Information
Conference: AGen2021
Stream: Aging and Gerontology

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Posted by James Alexander Gordon