Interdisciplinarity of care to the elderly with Alzheimer’s disease: reflection to the light of the theories of Leininger and Heller

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective: to reflect on the integration of Leininger's Transcultural and Heller's daily life theories in the support of the care of the elderly with Alzheimer's disease. Method: reflection study guided by the researchers' perceptions, when understanding, in the development of actions, the convergence between the theories. As the procedures, studies about the theme in the fields of nursing and social work were analyzed. Results: text organized in two parts: "Cultural Care of the elderly with Alzheimer's Disease" and "The Daily Care of the elderly with Alzheimer's Disease". The respect for cultural aspects and immediate problems resolution of the elderly with Alzheimer's Disease are interdisciplinary actions integrated in the context of care, from the assumptions of Leininger and Heller, in this scenario used as a foundation for improving the care of patients. Conclusions and Implications for practice: the interdisciplinarity of care in Heller and Leininger is explained by the approximation to the social context, with common elements. Together, these theories provide the best response in promoting the well-being of the elderly with Alzheimer's Disease and its related surrounding. The theories congruence implies an integral and solid care, involves concrete action, based on different assumptions, which strengthen when they come together, benefiting patient and caregivers, with an individualized and differentiated care.