Family Evaluation of Hospitalized Elderly with Encephalic Vascular Accident under Palliative Care

Abstract

Objective: evaluate the structure, the development and the functionality in families of hospitalized elderly patients with vascular encephalic accident under palliative care. Method: qualitative field research conducted with five families. Data were collected through the technique of interview, genogram and ecomap. The empirical material was analyzed in light of the Calgary Family Assessment Model. Results: it was verified that the participant families of the study retained the nuclear structure; presented low and education levels and financial difficulties. However, two families showed better economic conditions. As for the social support network, majority mentioned relatives, friends and the church. All referred to have conflictual family relationships. The family caregivers are females, specially daughters-in-law and daughters. Final Considerations: The structural, developmental and functional evaluation of the families in the study provide a space for nursing intervention in the hospital context for the families of hospitalized elderly with cerebral vascular accident.  Descritores: Relações familiares; Idoso; Cuidados paliativos. Descriptors: Family Relationships; Elderly; Palliative Care.