Pathways to institutional care for elderly indigenous Africans: navigating contours of alternatives

Abstract

The study sought to explore factors resulting in institutionalisation of elderly indigenous Africans in Zimbabwe. Though Africans value ageing-in-place, in the comfort of familiar people and surroundings, some are institutionalised despite negative outcomes on well-being. A qualitative case study was conducted using total population sampling to select nine residents. The mean age was 69 while mean duration in institutional care was four years. Unstructured interviews with the elderly, and a structured interview with the purposively sampled matron, were used. Data was narrated and thematically analysed. Findings suggested that institutionalisation emanated from adverse socio-economic factors, which impacted on health. Lack of close family ties, and dire poverty led to destitution and to failure to purchase drugs. These factors acted individually and in complex interactive ways, forming a pattern of problems. Institutional care was appreciated with reservations. The results imply that there is need to strengthen family support systems so that institutionalisation only serves those without alternative living arrangements.

Keywords: indigenous Zimbabwean, institutional care, elderly, old age home