FAMILY CAREGIVERS OF OLDER ADULTS AND PHYSICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL HEALTH CONDITIONS AND FAMILY SUPPORT IN CARE

Abstract

Objective: to analyze the existence of overload in family caregivers of older adults in the physical and psychological health and family support dimensions. Method: a qualitative study conducted with 23 participants from Dianópolis, Tocantins, Brazil. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews in September 2022. Data analysis was performed using content analysis in Minayo’s thematic modality, which includes ordering, classification and final analysis of data. Results: the results show that the exercised role of caregiver is related to social representation, which is enhanced: by the context, cultural and family values; by the naturalization of the role of women as caregivers; by increasing the burden due to excessive responsibility and lack of support from other family members; and by the presence of psychological symptoms overlapping physical symptoms in caregivers. Conclusion: it is concluded that the support of professionals is essential to rethink new practices and ways of producing care through individual or collective activities, with a view to preventing caregivers from becoming ill.