Caregiver characteristics and types of assistance provided by caregivers to minority women living with HIV/AIDS.

The incidence of HIV/AIDS has escalated among African American and Hispanic women in the United States and particularly in urban centers such as New York City. As a chronic illness, it is important to understand to whom minority women living with HIV/AIDS turn to for assistance and support. The purpose of this exploratory qualitative study was to identify the characteristics of informal caregivers and the types of assistance that they provide to minority women living with the HIV virus. Thirty one caregivers were interviewed using semi-structured and opened ended questions. Data analyses included the constant comparative method consistent with the grounded theory approach. A topology of two caregiver groups were identified, male companions and relative/girlfriend caregivers. Caregiving activities are described within each group in the areas of emotional support, child care, personal advisement, social welfare and financial assistance. Implications for practice and recommendations for further study are discussed.