Państwo i Społeczeństwo / State and Society

Search Results

Journal: Państwo i Społeczeństwo / State and Society

The need for social support among informal caregivers of geriatric patients

Małgorzata Pasek , Patrycja Mikos , Anna Goździalska , Małgorzata Jochymek , Anna Merklinger-Gruchała

Language: EN | Published: 05-08-2026 | Abstract | 102

In Poland, population ageing has increased reliance on informal caregivers providing home-based care for geriatric patients. Long-term caregiving for functionally dependent older adults is associated with substantial burden and a need for social support. This study assessed the level and structure of social support among informal caregivers and identified associated factors.

A cross-sectional quantitative study included 102 informal caregivers providing home care to older adults. Data were collected using a questionnaire and the Berlin Social Support Scales (BSSS). Non-parametric statistical analyses were employed.

Caregivers provided intensive, long-term care mainly to functionally dependent patients. The highest BSSS scores were observed for perceived available support, whereas the lowest were noted for actually received support. Institutional support was rated very low, while support from family and friends was evaluated more positively. Caregivers who were in a relationship reported significantly higher overall BSSS scores than single participants. A greater number of tasks in which the care recipient was non-independent was significantly associated with lower overall BSSS scores.

Informal caregivers of geriatric patients in Poland experience considerable support-related burden, with institutional support remaining insufficient. Relationship status and the scope of patient dependence were associated with overall BSSS scores. Strengthening community-based, educational, and respite services may improve the support available to informal caregivers.

2026-08-05



Journal: Państwo i Społeczeństwo / State and Society

Dietary Habits, Lifestyle and Awareness of Gluten-Related Disorders Among High School Students in the Greater Poland voivodeship

Tomasz Warchoł , Oktawia Daniszewska , Krzysztof Smarzyński

Language: EN | Published: 14-09-2026 | Abstract | 106

Gluten-related disorders (GRDs) require appropriate diagnosis and, in some cases, strict dietary treatment. At the same time, gluten-free products are increasingly chosen by people without a diagnosed disorder. This cross-sectional survey assessed dietary habits, lifestyle behaviours, familiarity with GRDs, sources of nutrition information, and reasons for choosing gluten-free products among 169 high school students from the Greater Poland voivodeship, Poland. The data were collected in 2018. Half of the participants reported physical activity at least three times per week (50.3%), 47.9% read food labels, 56.8% consumed two or fewer main meals per day, and 66.3% reported frequent snacking. Familiarity with the term “gluten” (49.1%) was more common than familiarity with “celiac disease” (39.0%). The Internet or social media was the most frequently indicated source of nutrition information (52.6%), while curiosity was the most common reason for choosing or trying gluten-free products (47.9%). The findings indicate gaps in knowledge of GRDs and support the need for age-appropriate nutrition education, including critical assessment of online information.

2026-09-14



Journal: Państwo i Społeczeństwo / State and Society

Physical Activity of Seniors in Małopolska – Barriers, Motivations, and Benefits

Andrzej Rokicki

Language: PL | Published: 23-12-2025 | Abstract | 75-91

The aim of the article is to highlight the importance of physical activity for the health, well-being, and independence of seniors in the Małopolska region. Based on the author’s own research conducted among a group of 460 seniors residing in Małopolska, concerning their physical and social activity, the study seeks to identify the main barriers limiting older adults’ engagement in physical activity as well as the role of social factors in motivating them to be active. The article also aims to emphasize the need to develop and implement initiatives that support seniors through programs and exercises adapted to their individual capabilities.

2025-12-23



Journal: Państwo i Społeczeństwo / State and Society

Personalisation of the learning process of pedagogy students as a support in the preparation for the teaching profession in early school education

Agnieszka Misiuk

Language: PL | Published: 23-12-2025 | Abstract | 41-57

The teaching profession is associated with a high risk of professional burnout. One of the ways to counteract this phenomenon is to prepare for the profession in such a way that creates conditions for the enrichment of knowledge and development of competences that constitute a protective factor. The text describes the results of a study of pedagogy students on the topic of personalisation of the educational process with elements of tutoring. A comparison of data from two measurements is presented and also categorised by means of a content analysis method of the respondents’ statements to the open questions. The obtained results indicate a positive impact of attending the classes on the level of knowledge, skills and confidence in their abilities in the surveyed students, as well as high satisfaction with the interaction with the tutors conducting the classes.

2025-12-23