Brazilian Long-Term Care Institutions and Psychological and Cognitive Conditions of Residents

Abstract

The growth in Brazil’s older population has increased the demand for long-term care provided by long-term care institutions (ILPI) for older adults. Although studies have characterized these institutions and their residents in specific cities or regions, a more general analysis, including psychological and cognitive characteristics, can help psychologists understand the needs of this population and plan interventions. This integrative literature review sought to characterize Brazilian ILPI regarding environmental conditions and service provision, as well as the psychological and cognitive functions of residents. Based on a literature search conducted in the SciELO, PePSIC and Capes databases, we selected nine papers characterizing Brazilian ILPI and 19 studies characterizing the psychological and cognitive conditions of residents. The selected papers analyzed 41 ILPI from four Brazilian regions. Most were philanthropic and received older adults of both genders (mostly women), preferably those independent for performing daily activities. Despite presenting a physical environment compatible with the legislation, all ILPIs had rigid routines and little time for leisure activities, contributing to the residents’ low autonomy, and had reduced staff - mostly health professionals and caregivers. Depression had an average prevalence of 50%, while the prevalence of cognitive decline ranged from 45% to 86%. We need professionals prepared to work with this population, especially psychologists capable of intervening on the resident’s psychological suffering.

Keywords:
Long-Term Institutions for the Elderly; Psychiatric Disorder; Gerontology; Institutionalized Elderly