Sibling caregiving among children orphaned by AIDS: synthesis of recent studies for policy implications

Abstract

Objective: The HIV/AIDS epidemic has increased the number of orphans who have to care for their younger siblings. However, their caregiving practices are poorly reported. This review aimed to explore and accumulate available evidences on sibling caregiving among children orphaned by AIDS.

Methods: We conducted a systematic review of sibling caregiving among AIDS orphans in developing countries and identified 25 relevant articles. We analysed the compiled literature and extracted information on the prevalence of sibling caregiving, the framework of sibling caregiving, factors influencing caregiving, and the impact of sibling caregiving on caregivers and those cared for.

Results: Sibling caregiving, which includes economic, physical, psychological, and educational care, was influenced by children's, familial, community, and policy factors. Unlike sibling caregiving that occurs under adequate adult supervision, sibling caregiving among AIDS orphans negatively impacts both the sibling caregivers and the cared for. However, the lack of studies about such sibling caregiving had prevented measurement of the level of burden and impact of sibling caregiving on orphans.

Conclusions: Policy makers need to be aware that older children caring for younger siblings risk physical and psychological ill health and information must be collected so that measures can be developed to mitigate this burden on orphans.