Milos Votoupal, Vojtech Krystek
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: The text is based on the assumption that elderly parents who take care of their adult children with mental disabilities are still an invisible target group for social work. The aim of the text is to answer the question: How do informal caregivers of adults with mental disabilities perceive their own life situation? THEORETICAL BASE: The research and interpretation of its findings are based on a modified theory of social functioning and the concept of the informal caregiver according to COFACE. METHODS: To answer the question, qualitative research was conducted with four informal carers. OUTCOMES: Social isolation, lack of support and unavailability of services were identified as common topics for respondents. SOCIAL WORK IMPLICATIONS: We propose that there be a clear policy for supporting informal carers through community-based services.
Keywords
social work, mental handicap, informal carers, support
Issue:
p. 104 – 120