Perception of informal care for elderly by healthcare and social care workers in Kazakhstan

BACKGROUND: The challenges of providing care for the elderly are often underestimated by the general public. Informal caregivers for the elderly frequently require support, and this issue is the subject of much attention in developed countries worldwide. However, it remains a blind spot in post-Soviet countries, particularly Central Asia. The purpose of this study was to investigate the perceptions of informal care for the elderly by healthcare and social care workers in Kazakhstan. METHODS: Ten key stakeholders were interviewed using a semi-structured interview. The sample included three managers, two general practitioners, one district nurse, two social workers, and two psychologists. The thematic qualitative study was conducted between October and November 2021. The data analysis was conducted using MAXQDA 2022 software. RESULTS: Most of the interviewed workers believe that caring for elderly parents is the duty and responsibility of their children, which is in line with the norms of law and the culture of society. While there is a general understanding that caring for the elderly presents challenges for informal caregivers, there is no consensus among workers on the necessary support to provide them. It is important to note that informal caregivers for the elderly are not identified or registered, and medical services are only provided in response to complaints, without regard for their specific needs. There is also no assessment of the caregiver's burden or quality of life. Additionally, necessary psychological assistance and counseling are not provided. CONCLUSIONS: To address these issues, it is necessary not only to change the legislative framework, but also to improve communication between services, as well as to conduct ongoing informational work with healthcare and social care workers about the needs and requirements of those who provide care for the elderly. KEY MESSAGES: • Legislation is needed in Kazakhstan to support informal caregivers for the elderly, including their identification and registration, and their inclusion in medical and social assistance programs. • Need train healthcare and social care workers to be attentive to the needs of both the elderly and their caregivers, including assessing their mental health and preventing psychological breakdowns.