Families that include individuals dependent on self-care and the resources utilized by families and rehabilitation nursing

Abstract

Introduction: The demographic evolution in Portugal is characterized by a marked population aging, with high levels of dependency associated, representing an enormous challenge for families that include dependent people in the household. It is important to identify the resources and equipment that facilitate self-care used by families who care for these people.

Methodology: Study cross-sectional and described design, with a probabilistic, random sample. The form “Families that include dependents in self-care” and sociodemographic characterization were used.

Results: 35 families that had at home dependent people in self-care were included. The number of dependent people was 37, 54.1% female, widows, and an average age of 83.1 years (±9.9 years). Dependence was gradually established (73%) due to aging and chronic illnesses and lasted for approximately 4.2 (±4.8) years. Caregivers were 80% female, married, children of the dependent person and an average age of 65.6 years (±10.1 years). The overall rate of resources used was 50.4%, with greater expression in self-care such as taking medication, walking and using the toilet (average-73.8%), and those of lesser use related to mobility: getting up, turning themselves and transfer (average - 25.1%).

Discussion: There is an underutilization of resources/equipment by families, which is consistent with the rest of the literature. It also warns of greater appreciation of self-care related to vital and survival aspects. Families indicate the lack of knowledge about how it works as a reason for not using it, demonstrating the importance of literacy.

Conclusion: The rehabilitation nurse is fundamental in training caregivers with appropriate resources/equipment, and this practice must be disseminated.