Family Caregiver Rights and Community Resources Challenges

Background: In Portugal there has been a marked aging of the population, enhancing chronic diseases and possible changes in individual capacity. The family is increasingly required to play the role of caregiver, changing their routines and priorities. Objective: To contribute to the empowerment of informal caregivers, improving their knowledge about their rights and duties, support and available resources. Methodology: Intervention was supported by the Health Planning Methodology. The diagnosis of the health situation was performed using a questionnaire resulting from the scoping review; the European Health Literacy Survey Questionnaire; the Zarit Scale; the WHO Wellness Index; the Barthel Index and the Lawton and Brody Scale to characterize the informal caregiver and the person being cared for. Resulting in a non-probabilistic sample. The theoretical framework used was that of Health Promotion by Nola Pender. Health Education, Empowerment, Health Marketing and Health Communication strategies were planned and implemented. Results: All the sample does not know how to be recognized as informal caregivers, 70% do not know their duties. 70% are unaware of the support available. As for community resources, 20% do not know about them. The overall literacy rate is problematic in 60% of the sample. The interventions implemented were the development of information products aimed at training informal caregivers and were evaluated with a satisfaction questionnaire. Conclusion: Considering the important role of the informal caregiver and the limited resources, it is essential to know their needs in order to adapt future interventions.

Automated summary

The aging population in Portugal has led to an increased reliance on informal caregivers in families. This study aims to improve the knowledge and support available to these caregivers. Findings show that there is a lack of awareness and understanding among caregivers regarding their rights, duties, and available support.