A importância da manutenção de laços familiares e de amizade na perceção da qualidade de vida em residentes em ERPI`s e utentes de centros de dia

Population aging challenges societies to adapt to the needs of older adults. Quality of life (QoL) is a multidimensional concept encompassing physical, psychological, and social well-being, influenced by various factors, including formal and informal social support. In contexts such as Long-Term Care Facilities (LTCFs) and Daycare Centers (DCs), understanding how these variables interact is essential for implementing strategies that promote the well-being of older adults. This study aims to examine the relationships between the presence, regularity, and perceived importance of visits from informal social support networks and the perception of quality of life among older adults residing in LTCFs and attending DCs. A quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional, and comparative methodology was used. Participants included 87 individuals (n=42, LTCFs; n=45, DCs), predominantly women, widowed, and with low educational levels, aged between 65 and 99 years (M=82.90; SD=7.50). The instruments administered were a sociodemographic questionnaire and the WHOQOL-Bref. The results indicate that in LTCFs, the importance attributed to visits contributes to better social relationships. In DCs, visits from family/friends are highly valued, and their regularity influences the importance assigned to them. It is concluded that maintaining affective ties is essential for the QoL of older adults, reinforcing the need for policies and practices that encourage informal social support, promoting well-being, social integration, and quality of life throughout aging.