The Grieving Process and Reorganization: Experiences and Needs of Post-Caregivers After the Death of the Person Cared For

The experience of main informal caregivers during a loved one’s terminal phase and in the bereavement process involves significant emotional and physical challenges, affecting their adaptation after caregiving ends. These challenges highlight the need for support in transitioning to life post-caregiving. Health professionals play a crucial role in providing compassionate support, facilitating a dignified farewell, and connecting caregivers with bereavement support networks. To understand the experiences informal caregivers after the death of the individual they cared for, and their perspectives on nursing care, a combination of qualitative and quantitative studies was conducted based on Grounded Theory. The findings aimed to promote effective adaptive responses and multisectoral support, assisting in bereavement reorganization and improving caregivers’ health after their role concludes. A model emerged for end-of-life care and support for caregivers after their caregiving tasks end, framed within a systemic approach to healthcare. This model emphasizes the interconnectedness of the terminally ill person, their family, and the caregiver as stakeholders in care. Recognizing and supporting informal caregivers is essential to ensuring the quality of care provided during the caregiving process. Continuous support throughout the caregiving period and during the transition to post-care is vital for facilitating adaptation and recovery.