"For better for worse is not easy’’, Challenges and Needs of Family Caregivers of Dementia Patients Seeking Care in Kumasi: A qualitative study

Background: The challenges and needs of family caregivers of dementia patients usually go unnoticed which could worsen the condition of both the caregivers and recipients in Ghana. The purpose of this qualitative study is to explore the challenges and needs of family caregivers of dementia patients who seek care at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Kumasi Metropolis of Ghana. Methods: With no predetermined sample size, 18 participants took part in the study. The study employed a phenomenological and an in-depth interview guide. The data were analysed using interpretive phenomenological framework. Results: Three main challenges of family caregivers were identified: economic challenges ( inability to buy drugs, limited income, high healthcare use charges, inability to work and lack of financial support), social challenges (lack of social participation, mockery and societal victimisation), and psychological challenges (stress, emotional trauma and inability to sleep). Three main needs of family caregivers were reported: physical needs (personal assistance, transportation assistance, physical attachment from spouse and inability to eat), societal needs (social gathering involvement and societal concerns) and psychological needs (free time to relax and faith assurance). Conclusion: The authors argue that there should be a rethinking of how caregiving is constructed in Ghana. We further add that the health and well-being of caregivers should be a paramount aspect of patient well-being in Ghana in line with the Ghana Mental Health Act. It is therefore essential for clinician to institute caregivers needs in their medical plan for mental patient’s recovery process.