Abstract

Introduction.  Alzheimer disease is a progressive, degenerative neurological disorder that primarily affects thinking, memory and behavior; its evolution is slow and damage occurs, severe. Currently the disease has no cure: the treatment is to lessen the symptoms and delay the degenerative process. The main objective of this research is to analyze the experiences of families living with a person with Alzheimer's, based on the theory of Imogene King.

Methodology.  The study required a phenomenological qualitative approach. The sample includes three families, each with a member with the disease. To collect data depth interviews and observation, as well as other instruments genogram and family APGAR I and II was applied.

Results.  In analyzing the data, families personnel changes system, interpersonal and social system was identified. Conclusion: It is important to recognize the struggle of these families to live with a person with Alzheimer's disease, which involves not only changes but challenges besides readjustment and restructuring their systems to meet their changing needs.

Keywords:  Alzheimer's-disease; Nursing; Imogene-King's-Theory