Psychosocial characteristics of elderly care linked to the Centro Vida program in the municipality of Samacá, Colombia

Abstract

Caring for older adults is a task that involves taking care of their physical, emotional, and social needs, often when they are partially or totally dependent. The carer function is mainly assumed by family carers. Caregivers, in turn, face various repercussions such as physical and emotional overload, stress, and, in many cases, an impact on their personal and social lives due to the time and energy demands of this responsibility. This article analyzes the psychosocial characteristics of caregiving and caregivers for older adults linked to the Centro Vida program in Samacá, Boyacá. A qualitative study with a narrative design applied semi-structured interviews and the Zarit Burden Scale to a sample of 11 caregivers. Findings show significant overload in caregivers, manifested in physical (such as fatigue and deteriorating health) and emotional (such as stress and anxiety) effects, as well as complex psychosocial dynamics, such as social isolation and lack of family and institutional support. These psychosocial characteristics and the physical demands of caregiving demonstrate the need for a comprehensive psychosocial approach. It is concluded that support strategies should be implemented to strengthen family support, facilitate access to social services for older adults, and promote the well-being of caregivers.