Challenges faced by family caregivers of older adults with Alzheimer’s disease

Abstract

Objective: To understand the challenges faced by family caregivers of older adults with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Method: This was an integrative literature review with a qualitative approach. Searches were conducted in LILACS and BDENF, both available through the Virtual Health Library. Studies published between 2019 and 2023, available in full text and written in Portuguese, were included. After applying the previously established inclusion and exclusion criteria, the final sample consisted of 11 studies. Results: Family caregivers of older adults with AD were found to face challenges related to physical and emotional burden due to the continuous demands of caregiving, directly affecting family dynamics and social relationships. Difficulties in managing the cognitive and behavioral changes of older adults were highlighted, particularly when associated with insufficient preparation and limited knowledge about the disease. In this context, the quality of life of family caregivers is negatively affected, contributing to physical and mental health problems over time. Conclusion: Family caregivers of older adults with AD face numerous challenges characterized by physical, emotional, and social burden, difficulties in managing the cognitive manifestations of the disease, and insufficient family support. These factors compromise caregivers’ quality of life and highlight the need for health promotion strategies, continuous support, and strengthened care networks to minimize the impacts of caregiving and improve the quality of care provided to older adults with AD.