Community nursing interventions in empowering informal caregivers: scoping review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.29352/mill0220e.41248Keywords:
Keywords: informal caregiver; health promotion; nursing intervention; community health; empowermentAbstract
Introduction: Informal caregivers play a crucial role in supporting individuals with chronic illnesses and complex conditions. However, they face significant challenges affecting their physical, emotional, and social well-being.
Objective: To map community nursing interventions that promote informal caregivers' well-being and contribute to the sustainability of their caregiving role.
Methods: A scoping review following the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology, using EBSCOhost databases via the Portuguese Nursing Association (Ordem dos Enfermeiros). The research question (PIC) formulated was: How do community nursing interventions promote the self-care of informal caregivers within a specific community?
Results: Twelve studies addressing community and public health nursing interventions for caregivers in Portugal were analyzed. Findings highlight the need for access to information, psychosocial support, and technology-assisted self-care management. Effective strategies include digital platforms, professional counseling, support groups, and health promotion programs to reduce caregiver burden and stress.
Conclusion: Informal caregivers face challenges that compromise their well-being, emphasizing the need for structured community nursing interventions. Integrating educational, emotional, and technological support can enhance caregivers' resilience and quality of life. The active role of community nurses, along with innovative approaches such as digital tools and psychosocial programs, is key to sustainable caregiving. Public policies should reinforce these initiatives to ensure continuous support for informal caregivers in Portugal.
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