Poverty, Domestic Violence or Both

Abstract

This case study highlights challenges such as financial strain and risk of domestic violence experienced by dementia caregivers. Using methods described by Yin (2003), two cases – a 76-year-old woman (Ada) who cared for her husband, and a 32-year old woman (Chika) who cared for her father were selected from a larger study on dementia caregiving in Anambra state. Data, including interview transcripts and field notes, were analyzed for themes. For both women, extreme financial hardship further complicated dementia caregiving challenges. For Chika, there was also the issue of physical assault by her husband who accused her of neglecting her duties at home to care for her father. Despite this, she continued caregiving at the risk of more retribution. The implications of the findings are discussed.