Constant depletion of some functional capacities and an increasing vulnerability are associated with the ageing process. Eventually, the individual becomes dependent on someone and the family is the main supportive institution. In view of this situation, one question guided our study: What is the relation between the family dynamics and to live with and take care of an elderly dependent relative? Our purpose is to analyse how the care provided by the family works, relating the family dynamics with the level of dependency of that relative and the age of the caregivers. We developed a related and transversal study, with an intentionally sample composed by 80 families and 143 caregivers. An evaluation scale was used to measure the dependency level of the elderly and a family adaptability and cohesion evaluation scale (FACES III). We concluded that the elderly level of dependency does not change the cohesion and adaptability of the family. Nonetheless, we also observed that the age of the caregiver alters the family dynamics, what can lead to the development of a pathological picture.
Aging; Frail elderly; Caregivers; Family
