BURDEN LEVEL IN PERFORMING THE ROLE OF FAMILY CAREGIVERS OF ELDERLY WITH SEVERE DEPENDENCE

Abstract

Objective: To determine the level of burden on role performance in family caregivers of older adults with severe dependence and its relationship to sociodemographic characteristics. Methodology: A cross-sectional, correlational and predictive, of 67 family as caregivers assigned to postrate programs. Zarit Scale was used and Sociodemographic Survey. Results: Family as caregivers are women, daughters, married, mean age 58.6 years, lower socioeconomic status, without occupation, incomplete secondary schooling, are 1 to 5 years caring, dedicated 21 to 24 h a day, no recreational activity without help of others and recognize the support of Community Health Centers. More than half have burden. The only variable caregiver burden was significantly associated with institutions that support the caregiver and to predict the overload. Conclusion: The care of older people can only cope with the organization of family labor equally and fairly. Ratifies community nursing and social organizations as shock factor family caregiver overload. It requires initiatives and projects that enhance social support networks, as well as improve the caregiver support plan with severe dependence that exists in Chile.