Family functionality and overload in caregivers of people with neurological pathology na regiao do Alentejo (portugal)

Good family functioning can help caregivers in decision making and in the resolution of problems or doubts that may arise as a result of the demands of caregiving. This study aims to analyse the family functioning of caregivers of people with neurological pathology and its relationship with sociodemographic variables, the level of overload and perceived social support. Methods: 58 caregivers of people with neurological pathology were recruited in the region of Alentejo (Portugal). A convenience sampling was carried out among the associations of relatives of people with neurological disorders. To obtain the data, an individual interview was carried out, including the Family APGAR questionnaire, the Duke UNK-11 Perceived Social Support Scale and the Zarit Scale. Results: 48.3% of the family's function normally and 51.7% show dysfunctionality. There is also a relationship between family functioning and hours spent on caregiving, perceived overload and caregivers' perceived social support. Conclusions: caregivers belonging to dysfunctional families perceive low social support, spend more hours on family caregiving and have higher levels of intense overload.