Abstract
OBJECTIVE
To compare the physical, cognitive and psychological health profile and care context of elder caregivers of the elderly in different home arrangements.
METHOD
Quantitative and transversal study with elderly caregivers. The sample consisted of 349 caregivers divided into mono-gerational, bi-gerational and multi-generational housing arrangements. Sociodemographic and care questionnaires and physical, cognitive and psychological health assessment instruments were used for evaluation. The Chi-square distribution and Mann Whitney’s U were used for data analysis.
RESULTS
Elderly caregivers in mono-generational homes were significantly older and independent for instrumental activities of daily living. In multigenerational households there was a significantly greater proportion of caregivers who considered family income insufficient, received emotional help, and felt overwhelmed and stressed.
CONCLUSION
The differences identified between the groups can contribute to the elaboration of care policies and for the health promotion of elderly caregivers.
Keywords:
Aged; Caregivers; Family; Family relations.