Characterization of the Informal Caregiver for Dependent Older Adults. Sao Grande People's Council

Abstract

Introduction: The progressive aging of the population and the growing functional dependence in older adults have generated an urgent need for care in the family environment. In this context, informal caregivers play a fundamental role.

Objective: To characterize the informal caregiver of the dependent older adult.

Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted with 26 informal caregivers of dependent older adults from the Popular Council of Sao Grande, Bartolomé Masó Márquez municipality, Granma, from April 2025 to October 2025. Primary data were extracted from the survey, which covers five sections: demographic data; training; topics they consider useful and to learn; challenges; types of support; and interest in training. The results were entered into an Excel 2010 database. Descriptive statistics were applied and the results were presented in tables.

Results: Females predominate, at 76 %, over 60 years of age. Forty-two percent are university graduates in the health field of Plan C. Ninety-two percent have received no specific training. Fifty-four percent have been in this role for more than three years. Sixty-six percent identified chronic disease management as a useful topic, and 69 % would like to learn about nutrition and dietetics. The physical difficulties of older adults are the main challenge for 74 % of the respondents. Sixty-nine percent require training, and 66 % are interested in further training.

Conclusions: The main characteristics of informal caregivers are that they are women over 60 years of age, university graduates, and have been in the role for more than three years. They have not received any training and express a need for further training.