El cuidador familiar. Una revisión sobre la necesidad del cuidado doméstico y sus repercusiones en la familia

Abstract

In the last 50 years important changes have taken place in the epidemiological pattern. The life expectancy increase and the birth rate decrease have caused an ageing in the population and a higher prevalence of chronical diseases. Although this ageing is a universal phenomenon, in Spain it is faster than in other countries. It is expected that population over 80 will increase by 66% between 1986 and 2010. Most of the care required by people with chronical diseases or disabilities are provided within the core family and, although since the 80's a higher concern for caregivers has emerged, there is no effective institutional support system yet. Through a bibliographic revision of the last 5 years, the current situation in our country is analized and the future of this caretaking is thought over, due to the deep family lifestyle changes that are taking place. The physical, psychological and social implications of caretaking on the main caregiver are emphasized, as well as the process of family assistance that should be developed by medical professionals, and above all, by the nurse.

Keywords

• Envejecimiento
• Cuidados informales
• Cuidado doméstico
• Familia