ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE: PERSPECTIVE OF FAMILY CAREGIVERS IN THE FACE OF HOME CARE EXPERIENCED DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Abstract

Objective: to understand how family caregivers of the elderly with Alzheimer's disease experienced home care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methodology Exploratory, descriptive qualitative research carried out with family caregivers of elderly people diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in a municipality in the Northwest region of Paraná, Brazil. The interviews were conducted through home visits mediated by the Community Health Agents, the participant was invited to answer the demographic characterization questionnaire and with their authorization the face-to-face interview was recorded. Subsequently, they were transcribed and organized in the MAXQDA Plus 2020 software and analyzed using Bardin's methodological framework. Results: 12 family caregivers of elderly people with Alzheimer's disease participated in this study, the data showed that the process of caring, whether in normal times or in pandemic periods, generates physical and emotional overload, especially when this is the only responsible caregiver. Burden resulting from the change in routine, lack of freedom and social life, which can influence the caregiver's quality of life. Conclusion: the need to implement a professional support network and disseminate information on home care for elderly people with Alzheimer's disease and/or other dementias is dazzled. Offering professional, personal and emotional support contributes not only to the quality of care received by the elderly, but also to the reduction of risks of physical and mental illness by the family caregiver.

DOI:https://doi.org/10.56238/sevened2024.028-004