The influence of Chinese cultural values on the experiences of family caregivers of adults with intellectual disabilities

Abstract

Many individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID) live with their families into adulthood, with family caregivers playing a significant role in supporting them. Part of a larger qualitative interview study that explored the experiences of 53 parents and siblings caring for an adult family member with ID, this paper primarily reports on the influences of Chinese cultural values on the caregiving experiences in Hong Kong and mainland China. The thematic analysis of data found that cultural values and beliefs had significantly influenced how Chinese caregivers' adopted different approaches to seek support. In embracing the numerous challenges when providing care, both similar and different caregiving experiences between Hong Kong and mainland China were identified. Family caregivers from both regions viewed the family as a single entity, showing a remarkable level of dedication, high involvement in caregiving, and a lifelong responsibility of selfsacrificing themselves to care for the family. The difference in the help-seeking behaviours of caregivers in mainland China were due to prevailing beliefs about ID, and therefore demonstrated more hesitancy when seeking help from non-family members. In the comparison of family caregivers from both regions, it is essential to place emphasis on providing practical implications that seek to adopt a holistic, family-centred approach to care. Health and social care professionals supporting Chinese families living with people with ID at home must broaden their practice to provide care for the family as a whole, and thereby ensuring continuous at-home support for this vulnerable group.