Social support in the context of poverty: a study of the elderly with cognitive impairments and their family caregivers

Abstract

Objective: To describe the structure and function of social support networks of elderly people with cognitive impairments who reside in the context of high social vulnerability, and their family caregivers. Method: The subjects were 33 elderly enrolled in Family Health Units that showed performance on the Mini Mental State Examination below the cutoff score in a previous study, and their 33 caregivers. We applied the Mini-Mental State Examination and Diagram Escort. All ethical guidelines were followed. Results: Both the elderly and caregivers relate social networks with similar characteristics. Caregivers, however, provide more support than the elderly. In both cases networks are numerous, however, few members providing or receiving support. Conclusion: The use of social networks as a therapeutic resource must be designed to establish the plan of care to the elderly.