The influence of families on the care for climacteric women

Abstract

ABSTRACT

This descriptive, qualitative study was performed with the objective to understand the influences that families have on the care for climacteric women. This study was performed in September of 2011, at an outpatient clinic of a public university in the state of Ceará, Brazil. Participants were nine workingwomen of ages between 44 and 57 years. Data were collected in focal groups and by observation, and submitted to content analysis technique as proposed by Bardin(2010). The following categories were developed: influences of families on the care for climacteric women, with positive aspects observed in the demonstration of affection, encouragement, the family’s experience and affection to relieve stress and promote care; and the family’s negative influences, mainly the non-cooperation in housework and relatives’ lack of understanding regarding climacteric complaints. Results suggest an effective implementation of public policies and programs to encourage family participation in issues regarding women’s health and strengthening of families.

Descriptors: Nursing; Comprehensive Health Care; Women's Health; Climacteric; Family.