Challenges Faced and the Coping Strategies Adopted by Family Caregivers in Dealing with People Living with HIV/AIDS in Thika District, Central Province, Kenya
Lucy Njoki KATHURI-OGOLA, Olive MUGENDA, Francis P. KERRE

Abstract
This paper documents the challenges and coping strategies family caregivers (FCGs) of People Living with HIV and AIDS (PLHWA) encounter based on a study conducted in Thika District. One hundred and seventy-seven primary FCGs of PLHWA, drawn through proportionate stratified random sampling from three divisions in the study area, were used. Data was collected using interview schedules and Focus Group Discussions and analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. Quantitative data was analyzed with the use of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) where descriptive statistics and inferential statistics were computed in order to understand the patterns and nature of relationships. Qualitative data was analyzed using content analysis, where labels were assigned to various categories and themes of the data. In addition, the data was presented where possible through the use of verbatim quotation. The results showed that the FCGs face numerous challenges in care provision, the most prominent ones being financial, food provision, stress and stigma. Consequently, they adopt coping strategies to ensure economic endurance, psycho-social wellbeing and spiritual support. The study recommends that policies and interventions be put in place to ensure that the FCGs are empowered economically, given psychosocial support and their capacity strengthened. These are fundamental in enhancing their adaptation. The result of which would be quality care for the PLWHA.

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