Needs of caregivers, mental health experts and Alzheimer's patients and their families admitted to hospitals in the city of Kananga: Challenges and expectations of care

Abstract

The care of Alzheimer's patients in the city of Kananga in particular, and in the Democratic Republic of Congo in general, poses many
challenges, both in terms of nursing care and family expectations. This study aims to understand the needs and expectations of elderly people
with Alzheimer's disease, their family members and healthcare staff in terms of care. It opts for a qualitative approach using non-probability
convenience sampling. It is an exploratory descriptive qualitative study that aims at a careful and systematic description of what is perceived
by patients, families, caregivers and mental health care experts. Data collection was cross-sectional. It applies the phenomenological method,
which aims for a careful and systematic description of what is perceived by these key informants. The data collected reveal t hat Alzheimer's
patients in Kananga face nursing care challenges due to their vulnerability linked to loss of autonomy, management of daily activities and
cognitive impairment. The need for medical care, particularly in managing treatments and drug interactions, is crucial but insufficiently covered.
Social aspects, such as isolation and stigmatization, profoundly affect patients and their families, who face a lack of resources to address them.
Mental and emotional disorders, such as confusion, agitation and depression, also complicate care management. Patients and families expect a
holistic approach, integrating medical, social and psychological care.