Caregivers' Perceptions of End-of-Life Care in Brazil: A Qualitative Systematic Review.

OBJECTIVES

to identify barriers and facilitators perceived by informal caregivers that impact care for adults and older adults at the end of life in Brazil.

METHODS

a systematic review of qualitative studies, following the JBI model, with meta-aggregation analysis.

RESULTS

thirteen studies were included. Five synthesized findings were identified. Caregivers reported the following as positive aspects of end-of-life care: access to a skilled and caring multidisciplinary team, the presence of an informal and, especially, family support network, clear communication addressing end-of-life issues, the development of resilience, and support in beliefs and religions. Barriers identified included a lack of preparedness among professionals and in hospital settings to care for this population, and feelings of physical, psychological, and financial overload.

FINAL CONSIDERATIONS: the findings have practical implications, allowing for the development of strategies to mitigate the difficulties faced by caregivers in the Brazilian context.