Role of the family in the care of the elderly: A case study

Abstract

Introduction: The family has become the important base of support in the lives of older adults, making them dependent on another, either due to different determinants, a dependent older adult requires support from a primary caregiver belonging to the same family circle. specifically female. Direct care for an older adult falls on a single person, bringing consequences to it, such as work overload for the caregiver. Objective: to investigate the Role of the Family in the care of the elderly and, in turn, to analyze the  level of burden of the caregiver and the quality of life of both people under study. Materials and methods: Corresponds to an observational, descriptive and analytical, qualitative case study, based on the role of the family in the care of the elderly Esperanza Mera from the Francisco Pacheco citadel in the city of Portoviejo. Results: There is little satisfaction in the quality of life and the level of overload is intense, as well as manifesting mild family dysfunction, for which a plan was designed that must be carried out in the Health Center to which they belong. Conclusion: It is essential that the caregiver is completely oriented and trained by health professionals in the care of the elderly dependent adult and in their self-care, since they are the only one responsible for the care without receiving support from the rest of the family.