Exploring role strain and experiences of caregivers of children living with disabilities

AIM: To explore and describe caregiver role strain in caregivers of children living with disabilities. DESIGN: This study used qualitative explorative, descriptive and contextual design. METHODS: Eleven participants were purposively chosen from caregivers of children receiving help from the social and community development office. Data collection used semistructured interviews and data saturation occurred with the 11 participants. The data were analysed using content analysis process. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research Guidelines were used for reporting. RESULTS: Four main themes were identified: caring for a child with disability affects the overall health of the caregiver; caring for children living with disabilities puts financial strain on the caregivers; caring for children living with disabilities has an impact on other roles; and strategies employed to cope with the strain of caring for a child living with disability.