Calidad de vida de las mujeres cuidadoras de personas adultas con enfermedades catastróficas en etapas avanzadas : estudios de casos en la ciudad de Guayaquil.

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis is to analyze the factors that affect the quality of life of women caregivers of people with catastrophic diseases in Guayaquil, through a case study approach, with the purpose of identifying their specific needs and challenges. The study is carried out from a qualitative approach, whose data collection instrument was the in-depth interview guided by the specific objectives, their respective categories and variables planted from the contributions of the theory of quality of life and from the ecological perspective such as: the profile of the caregivers, the effects on the quality of life of women, gender and the role of caregiving, coping, family and support networks. The study involved 4 adult women who were in charge of the full-time care of their sick family member in advanced stages. Among the main results, it was identified that women's quality of life is being affected in several areas, that is: their physical, emotional, social and economic well-being. Despite the fact that there are several factors that affect their quality of life, women implement coping strategies to overcome all the adversities generated by the stress of caregiving; Among the strategies identified are family support networks, support groups and personal resources to manage emotions, cover basic needs. It is important to promote gender equality and equity in the responsibilities of care and household activities.