Invisible Burden: Experiences and Unmet Needs of Informal Caregivers of Older Adults in Kazakhstan

Background

Population ageing is a growing public health challenge in Kazakhstan, with older adults projected to reach 14% of the population by 2050. Care remains predominantly family-based, and informal caregivers carry substantial responsibilities with limited formal support. This study explores the experiences, burdens, and unmet needs of informal caregivers of older adults.

Methods

A qualitative thematic study was conducted from December 2023 to May 2024 in Almaty, Astana, Semey, and Aktobe. Ten caregivers (mean age 40.9 ±10.8; 90% women) caring for parents (60%), spouse’s parents (20%), and grandparents (20%) with dementia (40%) or post-stroke complications (20%) were recruited via public health centers. Semi-structured interviews were conducted until thematic saturation. Data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s (2006) thematic analysis framework. Ethical approval was obtained from West Kazakhstan Marat Ospanov Medical University.

Results

Analysis yielded 12 categories grouped into six themes: 1) physical and psychological burden, including fatigue, stress, and emotional strain; 2) work–care balance and social isolation; 3) gender roles, with caregiving predominantly performed by women; 4) insufficient support from medical and social services; 5) caregivers’ needs, including recognition, respite care, and community support; 6) limited awareness of available services. Caregiving often affected employment, social life, and emotional well-being.

Conclusions

Informal caregivers in Kazakhstan face high physical, emotional, and social burdens while receiving minimal institutional support. Strengthening health and social services, improving access to psychological and respite care, and formally recognizing caregivers’ roles are essential to mitigate health, social, and economic consequences for both caregivers and older adults.

Key messages

• Informal caregivers, mostly women, experience substantial physical, emotional, and social burdens.

• Limited formal support, low awareness, and lack of recognition highlight the urgent need for policy and community interventions.