Support Needs of Bereaved Family Members in Limpopo, South Africa: A Qualitative Study

Bereavement is associated with the risk of mortality and has also been linked with insomnia, anxiety, depression, cognitive function, as well as work and relationship difficulties. In Limpopo province, which is one of the rural provinces of South Africa, family members are expected to observe bereavement rituals. However, there are no qualitative studies conducted on the lived experiences and context-specific support needs of bereaved family members in Limpopo Province of South Africa (SA). This research gap prompted the researchers to conduct the current study. This study aimed to explore and describe the lived experiences and perceived support needs of bereaved family members in Limpopo Province, South Africa.

A qualitative research approach and interpretive phenomenological research design were followed to explore and describe the support needs of bereaved family members in Limpopo, South Africa. A non-probability purposive sampling method was used to select potential participants who met the inclusion criteria of the study. Four Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) were used to collect data from 27 participants. Each FGD was determined by data saturation, which lasted approximately 45-60 minutes. Data was analysed using thematic analysis. Trustworthiness was ensured through credibility, dependability, confirmability, and transferability.

Two themes emerged from the findings. The first theme identified in the study is positive experiences of coping with bereavement and loss. The sub-themes revealed are accepting the situation, strengthened by the community, as well as sharing memories of the deceased. The second last theme that emerged from the findings is support needs during the bereavement period. The sub-themes revealed are counselling, employment, and financial support, as well as emotional and psychological support.

The findings of this study may provide much-needed guidance for supporting the bereaved family members.

The findings of this study showed that the family members need counselling, employment, and financial support, as well as emotional and psychological support during the bereavement period. The results of this study led to recommendations for practice, policy, research, and education.