Running before Crawling: The situation of HIV Care Givers in Thohoyandou, Limpopo Province, South Africa
Keamogetse .G. Morwe, Clementine .D. Ramaila

Abstract
The aim of this paper is to explore the profile of HIV caregivers in the Vhembe district, Limpopo Province of South Africa. The study uses a quantitative exploratory - descriptive research design. Thirty-nine female respondents aged between 20 and 35 completed the self-administered questionnaires. The findings of the study confirm the general perception associated with HIV; that HIV and AIDS is a disease associated with marginalisation. The majority of the care- givers are women with little education, based in a rural environment with inadequate amenities essential to enhance their vocation. Apart from the educational status and environment, the care-givers’ training on HIV palliative care is inadequate, thus rendering them susceptible to HIV infection. These findings imply that although HIV care-giving is beneficial, it can pose risks to both the patient and the care-giver. The paper postulates firstly, an environment where the barriers and the opportunities to men-volunteerism in care-giving are explored. Secondly, a comparative study of the profiles of caregivers in both rural and urban areas. Lastly, an investigation into the financial spinoffs that the government receives from HBC services needs to be investigated.

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