Non-directive support to caregivers of incapacitated elderly

Abstract

The increase in life expectancy in Brazil sets it as a structurally old country. In the year 2007, more than 7% of the population was aged 60 years or more, due to an improve in quality of life and decrease in the birth rate. The study aimed to analyze the interaction of a professional with a caregiver of an elderly, based on the non-directive support relationship theory. The interactive process between professional and participant was recorded, subsequently fully transcribed, literally, and analyzed according to the theories of non-directive support relationship and interpersonal relationship in nursing. Results showed that the interactive process established afforded the participant a moment of thought about the experiences this person had in the role of caregiver, and also showed the benefits brought by the non-directive support relationship. The relationship enabled, for the participant, a better understanding and conscience of the moment they live, increasing the congruence between feelings and thoughts. Finally, it showed the contribution the non-directive support relationship can have on the proposals of welcoming, of the Single Health System new guidelines.