Learning needs of caregivers of older persons in residential care facilities in rural South Africa: Unveiling unrealistic expectations

Introduction: The complexity of the caring needs of older persons in residential care facilities pose challenges for which South African caregivers were found to be underprepared. Their inadequate education and training led to varied quality of care, caregiver stress and burnout. The need was consequently identified to explore and describe the learning needs of caregivers working in residential care facilities in a resource limited setting. Methods: An explorative case study was undertaken and the multiple perspectives of stakeholders within the geographical context were elicited by use of four nominal groups and a small group interview. Results: Following a content analysis, the topics of basic nursing skills, hygiene, Alzheimer’s disease, medication, communication, rights, and responsibilities, as well as staff monitoring, and evaluation were identified. Conclusion: Most of the learning needs were beyond the expected caregiver tasks stipulated by the South African Qualifications Authority. The authors question the unrealistic expectations set before these caregivers.