Challenges faced by caregivers in taking care of their children with disabilities in Katanga slum

Abstract

Background: This study sought to understand the challenges faced by caregivers of children with disabilities in Katanga slum. The specific objectives of the study were; to identify the basic as well as special needs of children with disabilities in Katanga slum, to find out the social and emotional challenges that caregivers faced in caring for children with disabilities, to find out the financial challenges that caregivers face in caring for children with disabilities, to identify the physical and time-related challenges faced by caregivers in caring for children with disabilities and to identify the coping strategies adopted by caregivers and children to overcome the challenges they face. Methodology: This study employed a purely qualitative approach to research and adopted a descriptive case-study design. This gave a detailed description of the challenges that families in Katanga face to meet the needs of their children with disabilities. Data was collected using in-depth interviews with the caregivers (primary participants) and key informant interviews as the secondary participants. Findings: The findings show that the caregivers of children with disabilities in Katanga slum face a multitude of challenges when taking care of children with disabilities. These challenges affect them financially, emotionally, socially, and physically. The financial challenges include; medical expenses, transportation costs and insufficient income because most caregivers are unable to work due to caregiving responsibilities. Emotional challenges such as stress, anxiety, feelings of guilt because of the constant worry about their child’s health. Socially, the challenges might be stigma, isolation and lack of support which results into depression on the side of the caregivers. Physical challenges like fatigue, health issues, physical demands for example children that do not have wheelchairs, the caregiver has to lift them all the time. These challenges can be addressed using a holistic approach involving community awareness, policy advocacy, accessibility to essential services and infrastructure, and financial support mechanisms. The efforts should focus on reducing stigma, improving inclusivity in the community and schools, and providing comprehensive support systems that empower both caregivers and children with disabilities to lead dignified lives in their communities. Conclusion and recommendations: Overall, caregivers of children with disabilities in Katanga face numerous challenges that can significantly impact their daily lives. However they can be overcome through efforts by the government, private investors or non-governmental organizations that can maybe help them financially.