| Abstract: | In countries where the health care system cannot cope with the growing number of AIDS cases, the family and the community are significant sources of care and treatment. A qualitative study conducted in Mumbai, India, in 1994 sought to identify household- and community-based strategies for effective AIDS care. Enrolled were 26 individuals with HIV or AIDS, 4 couples (both partners infected), and 25 members of households with an HIV-infected person; in addition, 18 focus group discussions were held with low-income youth. None of the households contacted had abandoned a member with HIV. Household dynamics played a crucial role in the nature and quality of care received, however. The most supportive care was received by men, even when their female partner was also sick. In-laws often showed little compassion toward widowed, infected daughters-in-law. Individuals without open sores or lesions were better accepted by family members and perceived as less likely to transit the virus. Concerns about social stigmatization and isolation prevented many family members from turning to their community for support. Recommended, on the basis of these findings, are measures such as support programs to reduce the burden on female caregivers, subsidized and appropriate medical care, support groups for people with AIDS, HIV/AIDS community awareness programs, and increased involvement on the part of nongovernmental organizations in integrated programming. |
