The purpose of this paper is to understand the challenges faced by family carers of dependent elderly people in the task of caring. Initially, the ageing process of the Brazilian population will be addressed, with a brief history of this issue.

It should be emphasised that it is necessary to think about and discuss the fact that the number of elderly people is increasing, making it necessary for families and society to take greater care and attention. It also reflects on the health problems characteristic of the ageing process, highlighting the main obstacles to a healthy elderly life, as well as the profile of family carers of dependent elderly people, emphasising the task of caring.

It is clear that there is a need to discuss the main challenges faced by families caring for dependent elderly people, with a focus on identifying them in order to improve the quality of life of family carers and the elderly person, and also to serve as a reflection for professionals working in the area, in order to carry out work that promotes a dignified life and guarantees their rights. .