Cuidadores formais de idosos institucionalizados: perceções e satisfação profissional

Introduction: As a result of the growing demographic aging and the increase in the average life expectancy, the institutionalization of the elderly represents an emerging problem today. We therefore consider it pertinent to study the profile of the formal caregiver of institutionalized elderly people and their professional satisfaction in order to improve the quality of care provided. Aim: It was outlined as a main objective to identify the representations that the formal caregivers have about the care provided to the institutionalized elderly. Methodology: Qualitative study through content analysis of the registration units. The data collection instrument used was the semi-structured interview. The sample consisted of twelve formal caregivers from an institution of the elderly in the central zone of the country. Results: The meanings attributed by the caregivers of what it is to be old were: a person deserving of respect, with wisdom, who needs affection and care, to return to being a child and a person with physical limitations. By caring, they understand giving affection / support, transmitting trust, an essential good, caring for the body, mind and heart and also, knowing how to listen. The relationship of caregivers with the elderly is guided by joy and good disposition, a relation of respect for the individuality / will of the elderly person, trying to adapt to the personality of each one. They often perform hygiene (shaving); dressing / undressing; to raise / to lie down; position; feeding / hydration care; recreational activities and support in the deambulation of the elderly. It is in the transportation and positioning of the elderly that they experience greater difficulties. In most cases, the interviewees report that their work is appreciated by all (elderly, family and management). For some caregivers what gives them greater satisfaction is to feel that the elderly are happy / comfortable. Conclusion: All the interviewees reported that the caregiver activity brings them professional satisfaction and identified training needs in some areas of knowledge. The results of this research lead us to reflect on the importance of creating and monitoring programs of action in the field of training in specific areas adapted to the reality of each institution.