This paper explores Māori informal caregiving in the context of whānau. Included in this paper is the definition of whānau, which is discussed in detail, and a consideration of the impacts and implications of whānau caregiving for Māori.
In addition, an overview of relevant literature is provided, suggesting further inquiry into this topic.
*Please note the Committee sees this paper in its current form as a “work in progress”. The views expressed in the paper do not necessarily reflect those held by the NHC.
Purpose
The objectives of this paper were to:
- provide a description of Māori informal caregiving and the participants in caregiving relationships, highlighting both commonality and diversity
- discuss whānau and the implied differences between Māori and non-Māori informal caregiving
- identify the impacts of informal caregiving on the lives, health and wellbeing of Māori informal caregivers
- provide an insight into the impact of caregiving for Māori and women
- identify barriers experienced by Māori informal caregivers to providing care
- identify the conditions necessary for caregivers to give best care to care recipients and any potential measures to remedy or mitigate negative health impacts, health inequality and unmet need.