Vivencias y percepciones del cuidado a personas adultas mayores desde el cuidador institucional en el Centro Gerontológico “Villa de los Abuelos”, Cuenca, año 2026

Abstract

Institutional care for older adults involves a range of psychosocial and occupational factors that may affect the well-being of those who perform this work. Despite the importance of caregivers within gerontological services, there is still limited evidence regarding the experiences and meanings they attribute to their role. In this context, the study emerged from the need to understand the experiences, perceptions, and challenges associated with caring for older adults at the “Villa de los Abuelos” Gerontological Center. The general objective was to analyze the experiences and perceptions that institutional caregivers attribute to their role in the care of older adults. The research was conducted using a qualitative approach, through the phenomenological method and a descriptive scope. Data were collected through semi- structured interviews with five institutional caregivers and subsequently analyzed using ATLAS.ti software. The findings revealed physical demands related to resident mobility, extended working hours, and operational workload, as well as emotional demands associated with exhaustion and the emotional impact derived from caregiving. Furthermore, the influence of institutional resources, communication, and workplace climate on caregivers’ performance was identified. As an emerging finding, differences in emotional experiences according to gender were observed. It was concluded that the physical and emotional well-being of caregivers constitutes a fundamental element in ensuring comprehensive and high-quality gerontological care; therefore, it is necessary to strengthen institutional strategies aimed at supporting their well-being and professional practice.