Caregivers and implications for home care

Abstract

This was a descriptive and exploratory study, qualitative in design. Its aims were to understand how caregivers experience the home care situation and the contribution of home care teams to continuity of care. The data were collected using a semi-structured interview with 10 caregivers in their homes. Their statements were subjected to thematic content analysis, which resulted in three thematic groups: caregiving decisions; care routine; and the social dimension of care in the context of the Home Care Program. The results indicated low income and education levels among caregivers, severe dependence of care receivers, and difficulties of home care teams to provide material resources. Moderate overload and moderate to severe overload were observed among 60% and 40% of caregivers, respectively, in addition to social life restrictions. Home care presented weak points and compromised domains due to conditions of a socioeconomic nature.