A descriptive study with qualitative approach, realized with the purpose of knowing the meaning of being a caregiver and its relation with the burden level inflicted on family caregivers of chronic patients. Data was collected in July 2011, through semi-structured interview using the Zarit Burden Interview Scale. The information was taken from 10 caregivers who were taking part on a Family Follow-up Program in Londrina - Paraná State. The average score was 54.6 indicating a moderate burden. Four categories emerged allowing to identify that the meaning of being a caregiver is related to the type of family relationship built along the life and with the level of burden that was experienced. It is concluded that there is a need to recognize that family caregivers need guidelines, and above all they need to be taken care of in order to minimize the stress they experience.
Family; Nursing; Chronic Disease; Caregivers