| Summary: | This qualitative study aimed to explore how caregivers make sense of their experiences managing family members with heart disease including the challenges and coping strategies used. Using the thematic analysis approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with six caregivers of various Sarawak ethnicities (4 Malays, 1 Bidayuh and 1 Iban). The findings showed that there were three identified main themes in the context of adaptation and the development of caregivers’ well-being. Among them were the role of caregivers, caregiver challenges and caregiver coping strategies to manage stress. Caregivers recognized the heart patients’ need to be constantly monitored in all aspects be it physical, psychological and social in nature. In light of this, coping strategies such as positive thinking, spirituality and social support network may be able to foster the caregivers’ well-being. In sum, this study discusses the issue of caregivers of heart disease in ensuring their well being in terms of physical, psychological and social in the face of challenges of caring for heart patients.
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