Abstract Doctoral Thesis

Multigenerational families and positive aging in Portugal, lessons to family nurses
Ana Albuquerque Queiroz
School of Nursing de Bissaya Barreto, Coimbra, Portugal
RN, BSc, MSc, PhD


In Portugal multigenerational families still exist and are important support systems for all family members. In this study, I focus the process of successful (positive) aging evidenced in six families followed in a 3 years lasting ethno-methodological study.
In this presentation, I will explore how the ethno-methods associate to the practical daily life in its functional, and affective dimensions, such as they are perceived by the oldest, middle and young generations, favouring the promotion of the positive aging.
At the same time, I will discuss the impact from the decisions / interactions of the family member’s dynamics once strengthened and supported by health professionals, especially nurses interacting with families in the primary health cares context. These interactions must be based on the knowledge of the familiar culture apprehended in studying the experiences, habits and traditions; as a way of acquiring a profane knowledge of practical guidelines that promote positive aging of the oldest people.
The results show ethno-methods associated to the practical daily life in its functional and affective dimensions, as perceived by oldest, middle and young generations.
The results suggest that, in the studied families, factors exist that favour the related promotion of the positive aging. The important factors identified in the families culture and beliefs were the relations of mutual support, strong affective bows, clear familiar organization, opened communication, rituals and routines that characterize the family life and their association with the development of coping capacities.
I suggest that nurses must have in clear account the singularities of individuals and each family, as well as the specific nets of support; once the construction factors of each familiar identity represent an important context for promoting positive aging.