Abstract:

Abstract Objective: To characterize the interpersonal relationship between primary informal caregivers and older adults in a situation of dependence, based on a multiple case study. Methods: The qualitative methodology and ethnomethodological method were used. Three cases were selected, based on the presence of different degrees of dependence in the elderly. The techniques used were: interview, functional assessment scale and open observation. Results: In the interpersonal relations between a primary informal caretaker and an older adult in a situation of dependency, the history of the previous relationship is updated, generating frustration and/or satisfaction experiences as a function of past dynamics. This primary process acquires more transcendence than the communicative abilities in the relationship and mark an experience of the relationship, which, in some cases, differs from the experience of the work of care.

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