The family caregiver of the older person with hip fracture: perceptions about the transition to home

Abstract

Background

Fractures resulting from falls constitute a problem of great magnitude for the older person, as they cause functional decline and difficulty in returning to the state prior to the fracture, and for the family caregiver, as they require care support to face the compromised ability to perform daily life activities that these people experience.

Objective

To characterize the perception of difficulties and needs felt by family caregivers in supporting older person with hip fractures in the transition home.

Methods

A descriptive, exploratory, qualitative study was developed, based on semi-structured interviews with family caregivers of patients with hip fractures undergoing surgical treatment, belonging to a hospital in the central region of Portugal. To analyze the data obtained, Bardin's content analysis was used, with the support of the MAXQDA Analytic pro 2022 software.

Results

From the analysis of the 15 interviews carried out, two categories emerged related to the difficulties perceived by family caregivers in supporting older person with hip fractures in the transition home: Care Support and Responsiveness. In relation to felt needs, the following categories emerged: Continuity of care and Training to provide care.

Conclusions

The family caregiver perceives multiple needs and difficulties experienced in the support provided to older person with hip fractures in the transition home. As this phenomenon is somewhat complex due to the involvement of numerous factors, the analysis of the aspects associated with this care process is essential, contributing to a favorable evolution and a safe transition.