Duelo y pérdida de habilidades funcionales cognitivas en adultos mayores del sector ciudadela Tarqui en la ciudad de Quito en el año 2024

Abstract

Aging is a multidimensional process that involves significant biological, psychological and social changes, including the loss of cognitive functional abilities, which affects the autonomy and identity of older adults. This project focused on analyzing how grief, understood as an emotional response to these losses, impacts the psychological well-being of older adults in an institutional context in the city of Quito. The main objective was to explore the manifestations of grief and its relationship with the loss of cognitive functional skills, identifying factors that influence this process and effective coping strategies. A qualitative methodology with a phenomenological-hermeneutic approach was used, employing semi-structured interviews to capture the subjective experiences of 10 older adults between 65 and 80 years of age residing in the Ciudadela Tarqui. The interviews were complemented with direct observations to obtain a more comprehensive view of the participants' context. The selection of the sample considered specific criteria, such as the absence of diagnoses of neurodegenerative diseases and their willingness to participate. The results showed that bereavement in older adults is not only associated with the loss of loved ones, but also with changes in their functionality and social roles. The most common emotions were sadness, frustration and resignation, while factors such as social support, cognitive stimulation and psychological support emerged as protective elements that facilitate adaptation. In addition, it became evident that institutional limitations, such as the lack of resources and specialized programs, hinder the implementation of more effective interventions. In conclusion, the study highlights the importance of addressing bereavement and the loss of cognitive functional skills from a comprehensive approach, considering the emotional, social and cultural dimensions of aging. The research confirms that adequate social and emotional support, combined with cognitive stimulation programs, can mitigate the impact of bereavement on older adults, promoting their well-being and quality of life.