[Role and function of social support in family post-caregivers of dependent persons]

Social support appears to have a positive impact on the mental health and well-being of post-caregivers. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to examine the perceived social support network and its role in post-caregiving.

56 family post-caregivers of older people participated in a semi-structured interview. In addition, the Social Support Questionnaire -MOS- and qualitative measures were applied. Descriptive analyses of the relationship between variables were carried out. At the qualitative level, we worked with a phenomenological design using the NVIVO program. Finally, data were triangulated using the mixed concurrent triangulation design methodology (DITRIAC).

Post-care adjustment was positively associated with the dimensions of the perceived social support scale. The network of friends was found to be supportive during the loss, generating spaces for leisure and recreation that allowed post-caregivers to resume their social life. The family unit can move closer or further away. Children played a role of support and companionship for the post-caregivers and are also a source of motivation to cope and adapt to the loss of the cared-for relative. Participants emph asised the need to feel listened to and welcomed. 64.3% of participants referred to not having received psychological care.

It is essential to carry out interventions that favor the development and maintenance of the family caregiver.