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Use of a Mixed Methods Approach to Investigate the Support Needs of Older Caregivers to Family Members Affected by HIV and AIDS in South Africa

A mixed methods approach was used to investigate the support needs of older persons in South Africa who care for children and grandchildren infected with or affected by HIV/AIDS. A total of 305 caregivers in rural and urban areas were surveyed, and 10 case studies were constructed from follow-up interview data. Nine key informants in government and nongovernmental organizations were interviewed. Results of the analyses of the three data sets were triangulated. The outcomes indicated the impact of caregiving on the caregivers’ health and well-being, and areas in which they need support and policy intervention. The utilization of a mixed methods research design demonstrated two benefits: It increased comprehensiveness of the results and it enhanced understanding of HIV/AIDS-related caregiving.