The Brazilian demographic profile has altered the characteristics of aging. The present study aims to investigate how elderly women perceive the care for others and for themselves, by comparing it to their present needs of care. Ten women, aged 65 to 89 years participated in the study and were subdivided in: institutionalized and non-institutionalized. Semi-structured interviews were accomplished and qualitatively analyzed. It was found that the change of the “care-taker” role generates a void in the dominant perception, as these women become the object of someone else’s care. Nevertheless, they seem to become more committed to self-care. It was concluded that family, community activities and religion emerge as the main psychosocial support environment. Occupation and sociability influence the positive perception of care.
Old age; Care; Institucionalização
