O direito à convivência familiar de pessoas idosas: um estudo em uma Instituição de Longa Permanência

Abstract

The study of the rights of older people has received considerable attention due to the significant increase in the age population both globally and nationally. According to studies, the most frequent complaints of disrespect for the rights of elderly people include negligence on the part of the family and the lack of family ties. The situation worsens when the issue focuses on reverse emotional abandonment, both when it occurs in the elderly erson's home and when they are left in Long-Term Institutions for the Elderly – ILPI. The objective of this work was to analyze and discuss the effectiveness of the right to family life in a Long-Term Institution. To this end, a bibliographical review was carried out to theoretically support issues related to the right to coexistence of elderly people, in addition to field research involving 21 participants, including 02 ILPI administrators, 07 institution employees, 10 elderly residents and 02 family members. visitors. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis. The results revealed limited presence of families since the beginning of institutionalization, as well as a lack of commitment and abandonment on the part of many family members. The negligence of families when abandoning the elderly in long-term care institutions can have different causes, but regardless of the reasons, the result is the same: the violation of the right to family and emotional coexistence of elderly people. This lack of interaction can lead to serious consequences for the physical and mental health of those affected, increasing the risk of illnesses such as depression and anxiety. In view of the above, family life is a right guaranteed by law to elderly people, however there is a discrepancy between what is established by the National Legal System and what is observed in practice. In conclusion, the need to promote reflection on the legal responsibilities of family members towards elderly people, especially those institutionalized, is highlighted.