PREVENTIVE HEALTH CARE FOR SENIORS

Introduction and objectives: As Brazilian population grows old, there has been an increase on the incidence and prevalence rates of some diseases, such as Diabetes and Systemic Hypertension. These infirmities have become a priority to the Ministry of Health, because they result in a significant amount of the country’s health expenses. Therefore, this study focused on the elderly population of Jardim Niterói, in São Paulo, assisted by the Basic Health Care Unit (UBS). By evaluating global aspects of their lives and updating their medical records, the objective was to encourage and improve teamwork interventions and preventive care, in order to increase this population’s quality of life. Methods: An active search was performed for patients above 60 years old in the region of Jardim Niterói. They were submitted to a Rapid Multidimensional Evaluation of the Elderly, recommended by the Ministry of Health, which evaluated their nutrition, eyesight, hearing, bladder control, sexual activity, mood, cognition and memory, motor control and general activities. Results and Conclusions: A total of 27 people participated on this study. Among them, Hypertension (74%) was more prevalent than Diabetes (55%). Only 22% of the participants alleged malnutrition. Also, the results show that 78% of this population presented comorbid situations, what indicates need for attention and monitoring. Overall, Diabetes and Hypertension presented significant rates in this population, although it did not seem to imply in high numbers of associated complications, indicating adequate control of these conditions. These patients, however, still require close attention.