Care of a Close Relative as a Change in the Carer’s Lifestyle and Social Situation

Abstract

Introduction: This paper focuses on providing social care to a close relative. It is crucial in social services. Design: qualitative methodology – method of semi-structured interviews. Methods: respondents were selected to satisfy specific criteria. Particularly, these criteria were the care of a close relative who was assigned level III or IV care benefits. Another criterion according to which we selected respondents was that the carer belonged to the age group in which a person is still usually economically active. The research sample consisted of 6 respondents. Results: Based on the data analysis, we created categories to present the content of semi-structured interviews. Needs focusing on the body carried over into maintenance of one’s own physical and mental health are: the need for safety, the need for acceptance, the need for acknowledgement and respect, and the need for self-fulfilment and perspective. Conclusions: It is important to identify the care of a close relative, the specifics and needs, in the interests of configuring effective management of medical, psychological and social care, and creation of a system of social protection.