Concept of family insufficiency in the aged: critical literature analysis

ABSTRACT

Objective:

to identify the attributes of the "family insufficiency" concept of the aged in the literature.

Method:

critical literature analysis.

Results:

family insufficiency is characterized as a complex process of psychosocial interaction, founded mainly on low social support of the aged and impaired family ties. Its antecedents are found in contemporary transformations within the family system, intergenerational conflicts, impaired family relationships and social vulnerability of the family. The consequences of family insufficiency include social vulnerability of the aged, decline of psychological and functional health, lower quality of life and unsuccessful aging. An original theoretical proposal was elaborated for the concept of family insufficiency in the elderly, with the identification of its attributes, antecedents and consequences.

Conclusion:

the findings of this study constitute a theoretical advancement in the Family Insufficiency Syndrome in elderly people and provide data for future field research in developing the concept.

Key words:
Aged; Family Relations; Concept Formation