LAUSR

AIM Describe the initial process through which people who imminently become caregivers of a dependent elderly relative. DESIGN Qualitative study, for which its analysis has been directed by Grounded Theory principles. LOCATION This study was conducted in the Health Districts of Jaén, during 2015 and 2016 at the community level. PARTICIPANTS AND/OR CONTEXTS The recruitment was carried out by managers of the Health Centres of each Health District, who located the participants who met the inclusion criteria and invited them to participate in the study. METHOD Eleven in-depth interviews were carried out, until saturation of information, on individuals who had been caring for an older relative with dependency for less than one year. RESULTS Three phases have been described during this process. An initial phase of changes, in which the caregiver assumes new activities; a second phase full of emotions, in which the needs and consequences emerge in caregivers; and a third phase that emphasises acceptance as a coping strategy and uncertainty as an expectation of the future. DISCUSSION The description of this process provides a comprehensive understanding of the experience of becoming a family caregiver, in order to help health professionals to adapt to the plans of care for this initial situation.