Spirituality, Social Support and Quality of Life of Persons Living With Hiv/Aids

Abstract

HIV is a virus that attacks white blood cells, weakening the immune system, and leading to the development of AIDS. It affects the poor, rich, uneducated and educated in both underdeveloped and developed countries, with higher rates in third-world countries like Ghana. The purpose of the study was to examine the spirituality, social support and quality of life of HIV/AIDS patients at the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital. A descriptive quantitative research design was used in the study. Using the convenience sampling technique, a sample size of 196 from the accessible population of 3,000 persons living with HIV/AIDS and receiving treatment at the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital was utilized. Participants answered a 50-item questionnaire that measured quality of life, social support and spirituality. The study found that people living with HIV/AIDS in Cape Coast Metropolis have a good quality of life, social support, and spirituality. Also, social support was a significant predictor of quality of life and its dimensions. Again, spirituality was a significant predictor of all the dimensions of quality of life and indirect influence on social support. The study recommends that the Ministry of Information, the Ghana Health Service, the Media, and NGOs should develop appropriate information, education, and communication materials to raise public awareness of the disease and educate the public about social isolation and stigma associated with HIV/AIDS.