Abstract
This qualitative study examines the narratives of 14 caregivers (13 Filipinos and a Honduran) around Sacramento County regarding the contribution and influence of spirituality and religion on their motivations and quality of service. Purposive sampling with snowballing referrals led to the selection of the participants. Face to face interviews yielded interview data that was coded by themes. The findings of the study centered on six themes: caregiver motivations, caregiver stress or burden, cultural factors, the personal and ideological relationship between spirituality and religion, coping strategies and the rewards of caregiving, and the influence of spirituality and religion on wellness and quality of life. The caregivers were moved to take on the caregiving responsibilities for financial reasons and to reciprocate the love of the elderly parents or family members. Cultural values also characterized the Filipino style of caregiving. Spirituality and religion helped them handle their job to find meaning to their life and promote their own wellness. Implications for further research and social work practice are explored.