Informal Home Care for Elderly in Belgium: A Study on the Features and Challenges of Informal Care at Local Level.

Informal Home Care for Elderly in Belgium: A Study on the Features and Challenges of Informal Care at Local Level.
Community Ment Health J. 2014 Jan 22;
Authors: Criel B, Vanlerberghe V, De Koker B, Decraene B, Engels E, Waltens R
Abstract
In Belgium, and in other OECD countries, there is a growing awareness about the importance of informal home care for the elderly's well-being. Informal care is considered as an intrinsically valuable social phenomenon. Public authorities in Belgium have been advocating an active policy of support for informal carers. In 2007, an extensive survey was carried out in the Belgian municipality of Kruibeke in order to establish a better picture of the various needs of the elderly in their home situation, but also to better understand the way in which informal care is provided and perceived by care receivers and care givers. The study points to the need for support for the difficult burden of informal care and highlights the need for a coordinated and integrated approach to elderly care.
PMID: 24449429 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Source: Community Mental Health Journal - January 22, 2014 Category: Psychiatry Authors: Criel B, Vanlerberghe V, De Koker B, Decraene B, Engels E, Waltens R Tags: Community Ment Health J Source Type: research