Expectations of carers of chronically ill patients

Objectives. The aim of the study was to determine the difficulties faced by carers of chronically ill patients. Material and method. The study was based on anonymous questionnaire and was aimed at carers of old patients as well as physically and mentally disabled. Results. The study was performed on a group of 50 respondents. Women were 92% (46; 26-68 years); men were 8% ( 4; 42-52 years). The majority of respondents came from rural areas (46%, 23 persons). Nearest family members made up 30% of the group (15 persons). 58% (29) made the decision to put a family member in a nursing home. The earliest symptom as well as the greatest difficulty for 40% (20) of the carers was the aggresion of the ill person. The most common chronic illness reported by respondents was schizophrenia (24%, 12). At the time of the diagnosis of the patients 50% (25) of carers were there ready to offer support. 20% (10) of the respondents turned to pschychologist in order to ensure assistance in mental functioning. In the opinion of 44% (22) of the interviewed they maintain sufficient with medical professionals. 34% (17) of the surveyed received adequate help from institutions which provide support for chronically ill and disabled persons. Major difficulties reported by the respondents were the lack of: financial resources at home and in institutions providing medical and care services, wider access to specialist doctors, insufficient flow of information. Conclusions. Nearest family members who look after the ill at home were the most numerous group among the respondents. The greatest difficulty for carers was the aggression of the ill person. Unusually low percentage of the respondents contacts the family doctor to get information on their patients' illness. The respondents pointed out the lack of financial resources.