Characterization of caregivers of the elderly in the metropolitan region of Porto Alegre (RS): care profile

ABSTRACT This study aims to characterize the caregivers of the elderly in metropolitan area of Porto Alegre regarding: the qualification for the profession, their feelings towards the elderly, the work overload, cognitive status and physical condition. Between January and February 2015, 20 participants answered a questionnaire about age, gender, education, marital status, brief health status investigation and feelings about care and the Zarit Burden Interview Scale, Geriatric Depression Scale, Mini-Mental State Examination, Tinneti's Balance and Gait Assessment Scale. It was verified that the participants have never done training and that they present losses in their health.