Family caregivers of older people in Spain

Abstract

Aims and objectives: To provide information about the demographic characteristics and the situation of family caregivers of older people in Spain.

Background: In Mediterranean countries, such as Spain, long-term care for older people is provided mainly by family members. This family-based model of care is undergoing many changes, given the social and economic changes that Spain has experienced in recent years. This highlights the importance of providing up-to-date data on family caregivers.

Design: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out on 221 primary family caregivers of people over 65 years old.

Methods: Personal interviews were conducted with caregivers using a questionnaire specifically designed for this study. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analysis.

Results: Most caregivers were women (84·6%), mainly daughters (52·5%) or wives (27·1%), with a mean age of 54·6 years. Many caregivers (26·2%) were over 65 years old. The profile of the care recipient was a woman (71·5%) with a mean age of 82·5 years and a high level of dependency. Most caregivers (54·3%) had been providing care for more than five years and dedicated more than 70 hours per week to it (81·9%).

Conclusion: The family-based model of care in Spain continues to be very intense and falls mainly on women. The presence of 'older' caregivers (over 65) is a significant finding that needs to be addressed.

Relevance to clinical practice: Nurses should be aware of the high burden and dedication of family caregivers in Spain. There is a need for targeted interventions to support these caregivers, especially as they themselves age.