Caregivers’ activities at a long-stay institution for the elderly

Abstract

Objective: The study’s purpose has been to analyze the activities performed by long-stay institution caregivers. Methods: It is a descriptive research with a qualitative approach, which was performed at a long-stay philanthropic institution for the elderly located in the East of Teresina city, Piauí State. A total of 12 randomly selected elderly caregivers have participated of the study. Data collection took place from February to March 2017 through semi-structured interviews. Results: Based on the thematic analysis, it was possible to underline two categories, as follows: Activities concerning basic human needs; and, The caregivers’ overload due to elderly-related activities. Conclusion: The actions taken do not go beyond the caring activities. Although some caregivers mention doing some plays, dances, and games, those actions are considered unusual, because not everyone does it. There is a setback, because the activities lead such professionals to work overload, mood swings, adaptation difficulties, total dependency, then becoming a barrier to its own execution.