The experiences of older individuals providing care to older dependents: A phenomenological study in Spain

Objective Non-professional care provided in domestic settings by a family member or someone from the close environment and without a connection to a professional care service, is increasingly assumed by older people, mainly the spouses of those requiring care. The aim of this study was to describe the experience of older people providing care at home to older dependents. Methods A qualitative study was carried out to describe and explore the experience of older people, caregivers of dependent older people in the home. Results Four themes emerged as a result of the analysis: interpersonal relationships established in the caregivers’ immediate environment; the need and request for public and…