Abstract
<title>Abstract</title> <p>Purpose This descriptive qualitative study addressed two questions: (a) what challenges hinder caregiving capacity, and (b) what enablers facilitate it, among working-aged informal caregivers of older persons. Methods Adopting a constructivist viewpoint, data were collected via semi-structured interviews with twelve caregivers, field notes, and home visits. Audio recordings were transcribed and analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis, with findings triangulated across data sources. Results The analysis identified three key challenges (physical-emotional strain, social isolation, resource constraints) and two primary enablers (intrinsic and extrinsic capacity). The dynamic interplay of these factors shaped caregivers' perceived abilities. Conclusions The constructivist approach provides a novel, strength-based perspective on caregiving capacity in the Malaysian context, moving beyond a burden-focused narrative. Findings emphasize the need for holistic clinical assessments and caregiver-inclusive practices that build on enablers and mitigate barriers to support sustainable care.</p>