Promoting health among the elderly: actions in primary health care

Abstract

Abstract Objective: To identify health promotion actions carried out by professionals in the Family Health Strategy in relation to elderly people. Method: An exploratory study with a qualitative approach was performed in Juazeiro do Norte, Ceará, Brazil, with 19 professionals. A recorded, fully transcribed semi-structured interview was used after authorization by the ethics committee under number 501 675. The discussions were analyzed using Content Analysis, organized into thematic categories. Results: Actions of a collective nature were identified, such as activities in groups, meetings, conversation circles, lectures and guidance in the waiting room. Other directed actions were used, such as guidelines during individual consultations and referral to specialized services. Conclusion: The need for the discussion of health promotion and actions in relation to old age was highlighted, with debate and reflection on this theme required locally, along with the need to build a network of support for the health of the elderly in a shared manner among professionals, managers and the community.