Abstract

A descriptive, qualitative study was undertaken to address nursing actions to support the family caregivers of dependent elderly persons in dealing with care needs, aimed at ensuring a better quality of life for both caregivers and the elderly. The setting was the Geriatric Outpatient Clinic of a Public University Hospital in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. A research-action methodology was employed family caregivers as co-researchers. The present work represents a strategy for institutional support, strengthening health services and improving support for family caregivers.

Keywords

nursing, elderly person, caregiver, long-term challenge, research methodology, historical and social processes, family care, caring model, adherence to treatment, public policies, caring for those who care, geriatrics, outpatient clinic, public health service