Abstract
ObjectiveThe present study was to investigate the status of the family relationships of elderly patients with Alzheimer’s disease from a caregiver’s perspective.MethodsA total of sixteen relatives/caregivers of AD patients were assessed by applying a semi-structured questionnaire about family relationships. Frequency tables containing categorical variables (gender, schooling, personal income and current occupation) were compiled. Descriptive statistics were calculated of continuous variables such as age. Answers to open questions were submitted to Bardin’s content analysis. The data were held on the Epidata program and statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS v.17.0 software package.ResultsIn line with the literature, the family was the main source of caregivers and the typical caregiver profile was female. In contrast to other studies, emotional burnout was not a major complaint in the sample studied. The ties created among family members and the life experience of each individual influences how interviewees cope with AD.ConclusionThe family relationships of caregivers of AD patients represent a constant challenge, due to changes in roles within the family structure as well as to disease progression. However, participation in psychological and socio-educational activities run by pioneering institutions in Brazil, act as a mediator of stress in the lives of both caregivers and patients.
Highlights
The present study was to investigate the status of the family relationships of elderly patients with Alzheimer’s disease from a caregiver’s perspective
The majority of caregivers had been caring for the elderly patient since the onset of their disease
Brazilian epidemiological studies report that approximately 7% of elderly meet criteria for dementia,[17] while 16% present with some degree of cognitive and/or functional decline.[18]
Summary
Abstract – Objective: The present study was to investigate the status of the family relationships of elderly patients with Alzheimer’s disease from a caregiver’s perspective. Conclusão: As relações familiares de cuidadores de pacientes com DA é um desafio permanente, resultante tanto da troca de papéis na estrutura familiar, como em virtude da progressão da doença do paciente. The family is not a natural occurrence but a cultural achievement, being deep-rooted in a history of creation and transformation.[1] In terms of its structures and functions, the term family has been used to designate different social institutions and groupings. These organs were not necessarily concerned with everyday or generational reproduction as a specific or exclusive function, at times playing primarily political and economic roles
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