Avaliação das necessidades psicossociais de cuidadores familiares de pessoas idosas com doença de Parkinson e/ou Alzheimer

Abstract

Introduction: Until the 1970s, high birth rates and reduced mortality increased the population in Brazil. After this decade, the drop in birth rates resulted in reduced population growth. This changed the profile of diseases, going from infectious to chronic and degenerative. Alzheimer's (AD) and Parkinson's (PD) are neurodegenerative diseases, with no cure, that require palliative care. AD is the leading cause of dementia worldwide, while PD is associated with the loss of dopaminergic neurons. Care for these patients is often provided by family members, motivated by love and gratitude. Objective: To assess the affected psychosocial needs of caregivers of people living with Parkinson's and/or Alzheimer's. Method: It consists of an exploratory, descriptive study, with a quantitative approach, carried out through a questionnaire with caregivers of people with Parkinson's and Alzheimer's participating in the Reviver research and extension group at the Federal University of Amapá (UNIFAP). Results: The majority of caregivers interviewed are women (68%) from different professions (48%), who live with four or more people in their homes (52%) with an income above two minimum wages (60%). They dedicate between 8 and 18 hours of care to the elderly (52%) and mostly care for people living with Parkinson's (76%). Furthermore, caregivers reported that their psychosocial needs for freedom and leisure are affected by the act of caring for a person with a neurodegenerative disease, and needs such as self-realization, self-esteem and security are partially affected. The research shows that there is an association between the sociodemographic profile of caregivers and their psychosocial needs, indicating that caring for the elderly impacts their psychosocial needs. Conclusion: The study highlights the complexities faced by caregivers of people living with Parkinson's Disease (PD) and/or Alzheimer's Disease (AD), highlighting adversities in their lives.