Uso dos serviços de saúde por pessoas idosas em áreas rurais e urbanas do Brasil / Health services utilization by older adults in rural and urban areas of Brazil

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar o uso dos serviços de saúde por pessoas idosas residentes em áreas urbanas e rurais do Brasil. Método Estudo transversal que analisou dados da Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde 2019, referentes aos moradores idosos (≥60 anos) selecionados nos domicílios, totalizando 22.728 entrevistas (3.300 em área rural e 19.426 em área urbana). Foram estimadas para as áreas rurais e urbanas as prevalências de cadastro na Estratégia Saúde da Família, intervalo de tempo da última consulta médica e odontológica, procura do serviço nas últimas duas semanas, última aferição da pressão arterial e da glicemia e avaliados os fatores associados à utilização dos serviços de saúde médicos e odontológicos nos últimos 12 meses. Resultados A autopercepção da saúde como 'muito boa' ou 'boa' foi maior na área urbana (47,32%), assim como a proporção de pessoas idosas que relataram consulta médica e odontológica nos últimos 12 meses (90,54%). Evidenciou-se menor frequência do acompanhamento da aferição de pressão arterial (81,30%) e da glicemia (45,83%) em áreas rurais. As pessoas idosas que possuem baixa escolaridade, residem em áreas rurais, na região Norte são as que possuem menor chance de utilização dos serviços. Conclusão A população idosa residente em área rural apresenta piores condições de saúde em relação à população residente em área urbana.

Abstract Objective To assess health services utilization by older adults in urban and rural areas of Brazil. Method A cross-sectional study was conducted analyzing data from the 2019 National Health Survey on older adults (≥60 years) selected from households based on 22,728 interviews (3,300 in rural and 19,426 in urban areas). For rural and urban areas, the prevalence of Family Health Strategy enrolment, time since last medical and dental visit, service use in past 2 weeks, and last blood pressure and blood glucose measurements were estimated. Also, the factors associated with medical and dental health services utilization in the past 12 months were explored. Results Self-rated health of "Very good" or "Good" was greater in urban areas (47.32%), as was the proportion of older adults reporting a medical or dental visit within the last 12 months (90.54%). Rates of blood pressure (81.30%) and glucose (45.83%) monitoring were lower in rural areas. Older individuals that had low education, resided in rural areas, and the North region, had a lower likelihood of using health services Conclusion The older population living in rural areas had poorer health status compared with the urban population.

Exploring configurations of social determinants for enhancing older adult health in China: an fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis based on 31 provinces in China.

With China's aging population on the rise, addressing population aging has become a national priority, particularly focusing on improving older adult health. This study employs the social determinants of health framework, considering China's unique macro-social, economic, policy, healthcare, and family cultural factors, to develop a framework for understanding the social determinants of health for older adult in China. Using the fsQCA method and a configurational perspective, the complex relationship between social determinants of health and older adult health status is examined. The findings indicate that individual social determinants alone are insufficient for achieving high levels of older adult health. Instead, three configurations of social determinants have been identified as conducive to high older adult health: Economic Development-Environment - Cultural Dominant Type, Socio-Economic Development - Older Adult Security - Environment - Cultural Dominant Type, and Economic Development Dominant Type. These configurations offer diverse pathways for enhancing older adult health. Conversely, the study identifies two configurations associated with low older adult health levels, exhibiting an asymmetric relationship with the configurations resulting in high older adult health levels. Moreover, economic development consistently emerges as a core condition across all three configurations associated with high older adult health levels, while two configurations associated with low older adult health lack this core condition. These findings underscore the universal contribution of enhancing economic development to improving older adult health.

The impact of using community home-based elderly care services on older adults' self-reported health: fresh evidence from China.

Background: The rapid population aging in China, characterized by a higher prevalence of illnesses, earlier onset of diseases, and longer durations of living with ailments, substantially engenders challenges within the domain of older adults' healthcare. Community home-based elderly care services (CHECS) are a feasible solution to solve the problem of older adults' care and protect older adults' health. The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship, heterogeneity effects and influential mechanisms between older adults' use of CHECS and their self- reported health. Methods: The study employs the Instrumental Variable technique and empirically investigates the relationship, heterogeneity effects and influential mechanisms between older adults using CHECS and their self-reported health using data from the China Longitudinal Aging Social Survey from 2018. Results: The findings indicate, firstly, that using CHECS considerably improves older adults' self-reported health. Secondly, the heterogeneity test reveals that the effect is more pronounced for older adults who are under the age of 80, have functional disabilities, are free of chronic diseases, have never attended school, reside in lower-income households, are single, rarely interact with their children, and live in central urban or city/county regions. Thirdly, the mechanism test reveals that the "social network effect" and "family care effect" are the key influence channels of using CHECS. Conclusion: An empirical foundation for the policy reform of community home-based care for seniors is provided by this study with the limitations to discuss the other socioeconomic aspects such as government health expenditure and discuss the specific services aspects such as health care. The findings carry substantial implications for improving the health of older individuals and provide suggestions for establishing a socialized aged care system in China.

"Minha vida é me cuidar": itinerários terapêuticos de cuidado para a pessoa idosa em processo de fragilização / "My life is about to take care of myself": therapeutic itineraries of care for frail older adults

Resumo O trabalho buscou compreender a percepção de pessoas idosas em processo de fragilização sobre seus itinerários terapêuticos de cuidados. Esta pesquisa qualitativa, ancorou-se na antropologia médica crítica. A coleta dos dados ocorreu por meio de entrevistas no domicílio de 22 pessoas idosas, com média etária de 79 anos. A análise êmica foi guiada pelo modelo dos signos, significados e ações. Todos os(as) entrevistados(as) expressam acessar cuidados profissionais em sua trajetória que são interpretados como: insuficientes, despreparados, preconceituosos, incômodos, contraditórios, (in)acessíveis, um achado, respeitosos e excessivos. Os itinerários terapêuticos revelam-se também nos âmbitos psicossociais e culturais. Diversas ações do dia a dia vão sendo avaliadas e interpretadas no registro do cuidado consigo e justificadas por esse fim: o horário que acorda, que dorme, o que come, como se comporta. Em suas trajetórias, deparam-se com a falta de políticas de cuidados, com o enquadramento de seus corpos como indesejáveis, com barreiras físicas, simbólicas, comunicacionais, atitudinais, sistemáticas, culturais e políticas. Desse modo, revelam o pluralismo terapêutico, os desafios, os enfrentamentos, a insistência e a resistência na manutenção de cuidados ao experienciar velhices com fragilidades.

Abstract The present study sought to understand how frail older adults perceive their therapeutic care itineraries. This qualitative research was based on Critical Medical Anthropology. Data were collected through interviews in the homes of 22 older adults, whose average age was 79. The emic analysis was guided by the model of Signs, Meanings, and Actions. All interviewees expressed access to professional care in their trajectories, which are understood as insufficient, unprepared, prejudiced, uncomfortable, contradictory, (un)accessible, realization, respectful, and excessive. Therapeutic itineraries were also revealed in the psychosocial and cultural spheres. Several day-to-day actions were evaluated and interpreted in the record of self-care and justified by this end: the time they wake up, sleep, what they eat, and how they behave. They face the lack of care policies in their trajectories, labeling their bodies as undesirable due to physical, symbolic, communicational, attitudinal, systematic, cultural, and political barriers. Thus, they bring to light therapeutic pluralism, challenges, confrontations, insistence, and resistance in maintaining care when experiencing old age with frailties.

Attitudes towards hearing difficulties, health-seeking behaviour, and hearing aid use among older adults in Thailand.

Introduction: This qualitative study explores older adults' attitudes towards hearing difficulties, health-seeking behaviour and hearing aid use in Samutprakarn, Thailand. Method: Three focus groups (n=25), with adults aged 60-88 years, were conducted within a residential complex for older adults. Qualitative data analysis, employing a phenomenological approach was completed. Results: Four themes are presented: (1) Perception of hearing difficulties, (2) Experience of receiving care, (3) Attitudes towards wearing hearing aids, and (4) Raising awareness of hearing difficulties in older adults. Findings indicate that Thai older adults may not be aware or accepting of their hearing difficulties, due to the stigma associated hearing loss, older age, and disability. The consequential impact of these unacknowledged issues manifest in communication challenges and the adoption of avoidance behaviours across diverse situational contexts. Conclusion: This study enhances our understanding of how Thai older adults perceive hearing problems and ear care. Findings underscore the potential pivotal role of familial and social networks in mitigating barriers associated with hearing difficulties among older adults in Thailand. These insights can raise awareness and inform effective management for older adults and their families. Additionally, the findings could guide healthcare providers, researchers, and policy makers, fostering improved care for this demographic.

Cobertura do Sistema de Vigilância Alimentar e Nutricional (SISVAN), estado nutricional de idosos e sua relação com desigualdades sociais no Brasil, 2008-2019: estudo ecológico de série temporal / Cobertura del Sistema de Vigilancia Alimentaria y Nutricional (SISVAN), estado nutricional de los ancianos y su relación con las desigualdades sociales en Brasil, 2008-2019: un estudio de serie temporal ecológica / Food and Nutrition Surveillance System (SISVAN) coverage, nutritional status of older adults and its relationship with social inequalities in Brazil, 2008-2019: an ecological time-series study

Objective: to analyze the temporal trend of Food and Nutrition Surveillance System (Sistema de Vigilância Alimentar e Nutricional - SISVAN) coverage and the nutritional status of older adults, and its correlation with indicators of social inequality in Brazil between 2008-2019. Methods: this was an ecological study using records from SISVAN, related to the population aged 60 years and older; the temporal trend of coverage and the correlation between indicators of social inequality and increment rate of nutritional status were analyzed; slope index of inequality and concentration index were used to measure absolute and relative inequalities. Results: 11,587,933 records were identified; national coverage increased from 0.1% (2008) to 2.9% (2019), with a statistically significant upward trend; a moderate inverse correlation with an annual increment rate of overweight between human development index and gross domestic product per capita, was found. Conclusion: there was an increasing trend in SISVAN coverage; the increase in overweight was associated with social inequality.

Objetivo: analizar la tendencia temporal de cobertura del Sistema de Vigilancia Alimentaria y Nutricional (SISVAN), y el estado nutricional de adultos mayores, correlacionándolos con indicadores de desigualdad social, en el período 2008-2019. Métodos: estudio ecológico mediante registros del SISVAN sobre la población ≥60 años. Se realizaron análisis de correlación entre indicadores de desigualdad social y la tasa de incremento del estado nutricional y análisis de desigualdades absolutas y relativas para obtener el índice de desigualdad angular y el índice de concentración. Resultados: se identificaron 11.587.933 registros. La cobertura nacional evolucionó del 0,1% en 2008 al 2,9% en 2019, con una tendencia ascendente estadísticamente significativa. Se encontró una correlación inversa moderada con la tasa de incremento anual de sobrepeso para IDH y PIB per cápita. Conclusión: hubo una tendencia de crecimiento en la cobertura del SISVAN. El aumento del sobrepeso se asoció con la desigualdad social.

Objetivo: analisar a tendência temporal da cobertura do Sistema de Vigilância Alimentar e Nutricional (SISVAN) e do estado nutricional de idosos, e sua correlação com indicadores de desigualdade social no Brasil, no período 2008-2019. Métodos: estudo ecológico, sobre registros do SISVAN relativos à população na idade de 60 anos ou mais; analisaram-se a tendência temporal da cobertura e a correlação entre indicadores de desigualdade social e taxa de incremento do estado nutricional; os índices angular e de concentração foram utilizados para medir desigualdades absolutas e relativas. Resultados: foram identificados 11.587.933 registros de idosos; a cobertura nacional evoluiu de 0,1% (2008) para 2,9% (2019), com tendência de aumento estatisticamente significativa; foi encontrada correlação inversa moderada com taxa de incremento anual de sobrepeso, para índice de desenvolvimento humano e produto interno bruto per capita. Conclusão: houve tendência de crescimento da cobertura do SISVAN; o aumento de sobrepeso esteve associado à desigualdade social.

Challenges faced by community connectors: lessons learned from a Taiwan public health initiative.

BACKGROUND: Effective solutions that meet the diverse community health needs of older adult populations are of critical importance. To address these needs, a nationwide community connector team-tasked with providing referral support to older adult populations and completing an asset mapping resource inventory initiative centered around the needs of older adult populations-was developed in Taiwan. The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore community connectors' experiences and challenges. METHODS: Community connectors (n = 26) across four diverse sites participated in focus group interviews in July 2020. Interviews explored the challenges community connectors encountered in their roles; the strategies used to address these challenges; the asset mapping process; and on how they conceptualized their roles. Qualitative content analysis was applied. RESULTS: Three themes were uncovered: developing community ties, cross-organization interactions and professional conflicts. The findings show that community connectors face hurdles in uncovering community resources and that they experience considerable professional instability. The findings also shed light on the day-to-day approaches used to navigate on-the-job challenges and the steps taken to develop community partnerships. CONCLUSIONS: The experiences of community connectors provide important insights and can serve to illuminate the development of similar initiatives that seek to use community connectors for community health related purposes.

Diferenciais de gênero na expectativa de vida saudável entre idosos: estimativas para Bahia e região Nordeste / Differentials of gender in the healthy life expectancy among older adults: estimations for Bahia and Northeast region / Diferenciales de género en la esperanza de vida saludable entre adultos mayores: estimaciones para Bahía y región Nordeste de Brasil

Uma das ferramentas para avaliar as condições de saúde da população é a expectativa de vida saudável. O objetivo deste estudo foi estimar a expectativa de vida saudável em idosos e adultos mais velhos da Bahia e grande região Nordeste. Trata-se de um estudo transversal, no qual foram empregados dados da Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde de 2019. Como proxy de saúde, utilizaram-se as prevalências de autopercepção do estado de saúde, desagregadas por sexo, para o estado da Bahia e região Nordeste, além de tábuas de mortalidade completas para o mesmo ano e localidades, desagregadas por sexo. Para a construção dos indicadores de expectativa de vida saudável foi utilizado o método de Sullivan. As estimativas de expectativa de vida saudável mostraram que, quanto mais velhos, menos se vive em termos absolutos e proporcionalmente com boa saúde, uma relação direta com a idade. As mulheres tendem a viver mais e com menos saúde, no entanto, as estimativas não foram estatisticamente significativas na perspectiva de gênero. Propiciar melhor saúde e vida para indivíduos idosos deve ser um dos principais objetivos das ações governamentais deste século, haja vista o acelerado processo de envelhecimento da população e o aumento da longevidade, tendo em mente uma perspectiva de ação durante todo o curso de vida, não se limitando às fases mais avançadas da vida.

One of the tools used to assess what is observed in terms of the population's health conditions is healthy life expectancy. The aim of this study was to estimate the healthy life expectancy in older and elderly adults in Bahia and the Greater Northeast Region. This is a cross-sectional study, in which data from the 2019 National Health Survey were used. As a health proxy, the prevalence of self-perception of health status, disaggregated by sex, for the state of Bahia and the Northeast region, and complete tables of mortality for the same year and locations, disaggregated by sex. For the construction of healthy life expectancy indicators, the Sullivan method was used. Estimates of healthy life expectancy showed that, the older you are, the less you live in absolute terms and proportionately in good health, a direct relationship with age. Women tend to live longer and in poorer health, however, the estimates were not statistically significant from a gender perspective. Providing better health and life for elderly individuals should be one of the main objectives of governmental actions in this century, given the accelerated process of population aging and increased longevity, bearing in mind a perspective of action throughout the life course, not limited to the more advanced stages of life.

Una de las herramientas utilizadas para evaluar las condiciones de salud de la población es la esperanza de vida saludable. El objetivo de este estudio fue estimar la esperanza de vida saludable en adultos mayores y ancianos en Bahía y la región del gran Nordeste (Brasil). Se trata de un estudio transversal en el que se utilizaron datos de la Encuesta Nacional de Salud de 2019. Como proxy de salud, se utilizaron la prevalencia de autopercepción del estado de salud, desagregada por sexo, para el estado de Bahía y la región Nordeste, y tablas de mortalidad para el mismo año y localidades, desagregada por sexo. Para la construcción de indicadores de esperanza de vida saludable se aplicó el método de Sullivan. Las estimaciones de esperanza de vida saludable mostraron que cuanto mayor es la edad, menos se vive en términos absolutos y proporcionalmente con buena salud, una relación directa con la edad. Las mujeres tienden a vivir más y con peor salud, sin embargo, las estimaciones no fueron estadísticamente significativas desde una perspectiva de género. Brindar una mejor salud y vida a las personas adultas mayores debe ser uno de los principales objetivos de las acciones gubernamentales en este siglo, dado el acelerado proceso de envejecimiento poblacional y el aumento de la longevidad, teniendo en cuenta una perspectiva de acción a lo largo del curso de la vida, no limitada a las etapas más avanzadas.

Barriers and facilitators of health among older adult immigrants in the United States: an integrative review of 20 years of literature.

BACKGROUND: There are over seven million older adult immigrants in the United States, and that number is expected to increase. Older adult immigrants in the United States have unique factors that influence their health. METHODS: In this integrative review, we systematically review 20 years of peer-reviewed literature on the barriers (i.e. isolation, lack of English Language Proficiency, low health literacy, lack of SES resources, discrimination) and facilitators (i.e. English Language Proficiency and maintaining ones native language, social support, culturally sensitive providers, healthcare access) of health among older adult immigrants in the United States. RESULTS: We found differing uses of the term 'older adult', emphasis on the lack of homogeneity among older adult immigrants, social support and isolation as significant barriers and facilitators of older adult immigrant health, and inconsistencies in uses and definitions of acculturation. We also examined relevant theories in the literature. Based on the literature review, focusing on Acculturation Theory, Social Cognitive Theory, and Successful Aging Theory, combining these three theories with findings from the literature to create the Older Adult Immigrant Adapted Model for Health Promotion. CONCLUSIONS: Public health strives to promote health and prevent adverse health outcomes. Our integrative review not only systematically and thoroughly explicates 20 years of literature, but the Older Adult Immigrant Adapted Model for Health Promotion, provides guidance for future research and interventions.

An Intentionally Designed Walking Program for Seniors Results in Enhanced Community Connection.

Social connection is vital for older adults' physical and psychological well-being, yet nearly one third of them report feeling lonely. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of a monthly walking program (walking once a month for 8 months) on older adults' community connection. Older adults (Mage = 78.06 ± 5.98 years) completed a focus group at the completion of the program (n = 15). Qualitative findings indicate that participation in the walking program led to enhanced social connection. Researchers developed six major themes: (1) frequent and engaging walking programs, (2) benefits of group activity, (3) enhanced social connections, (4) connection to the community, (5) knowledge about transit, and (6) personal well-being, and 10 subthemes. Implications from this study highlight the importance of designing a walking program with older adults' needs and desires in mind.

The Impact of Natural Hazards on Older Adult Health: Lessons Learned From Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico.

OBJECTIVE: With natural hazards increasing in frequency and severity and global population aging, preparedness efforts must evolve to address older adults' risks in disasters. This study elucidates potential contributors to the elevated older adult mortality risk following Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico through an examination of community stakeholder preparedness, response, and recovery experiences. METHODS: In April 2018, qualitative interviews (n = 22) were conducted with stakeholders in 7 Puerto Rican municipalities. Interview transcripts were deductively and inductively coded and analyzed to identify salient topics and themes representing participant response patterns. RESULTS: The hurricane's detrimental impact on older adult health emerged as a prominent finding. Through 6 months post-hurricane, many older adults experienced unmet needs that contributed to declining physical and emotional health, inadequate non-communicable disease management, social isolation, financial strain, and excess morbidity and mortality. These needs were predominantly consequences of lengthy public service gaps, unsafe living conditions, interrupted health care, and the incongruence between preparedness and event severity. CONCLUSIONS: In a landscape of increasing natural hazard frequency and magnitude, a pattern of older adult risk has become increasingly clear. Study findings compel practitioners to engage in natural hazard preparedness planning, research, and policy-making that considers the multiple facets of older adult well-being.

Clinical expertise, advocacy and enhanced autonomy - Acceptability of a pharmacist-facilitated medicines review intervention for community-dwelling Maori older adults.

Background: Pharmacist-facilitated medicines reviews are effective at identifying medicines-related problems and can improve the appropriate use of medicines in older adults. Current services in Aotearoa New Zealand (NZ) are not developed specifically for Maori (Indigenous people of NZ) and may increase health disparities between Maori and non-Maori. We developed a medicines review intervention for and with Maori older adults, and tested it in a feasibility study. Objective: To assess patient acceptability of a pharmacist-facilitated medicines review intervention for Maori older adults. Methods: The intervention consisted of a medicines education session (pharmacist and participant) and an optional medicines optimisation session (pharmacist, participant, and prescriber). Participant acceptability was assessed post-intervention using a structured telephone interview developed specifically for this study. Participants responded to statements using a five-point Likert scale (strongly agree-strongly disagree; numerical analysis/reporting) which focused on the topics of power/control, support mechanisms, intervention content and delivery, and perceived usefulness. Open-ended questions relating to the intervention value and suggestions for improvement were analysed using general inductive analysis. Results: Seventeen participants took part in the feasibility study from December 2019-March 2020 and all completed the acceptability interview. Participants perceived the intervention content and mode of delivery to be appropriate, and that their power and control over their medicines and health improved and as did their confidence in self-management. Five themes were generated: medicines knowledge from a trusted professional, increased advocacy, 'by Maori, for Maori', increased confidence and control, and financial and resource implications. Conclusion: A pharmacist-facilitated medicines review intervention for Maori older adults developed by Maori, for Maori, was acceptable to patient participants. Participants valued the clinical expertise and advocacy provided by the pharmacist, and the increase in medicines knowledge, control and autonomy. Participants wanted the service to continue on an ongoing basis.

Idosos caidores e não caidores: Associação com características sociais, fatores econômicos, aspectos clínicos, nível de atividade física e percepção do risco de quedas: um estudo transversal / Los ancianos que caen y los que no caen y su asociación con características sociales, factores económicos, aspectos clínicos, nivel de actividad física y percepción del ries-go de caídas: un estudio transversal / Older adult fallers and non-fallers: association with social characteristics, economic factors, clinical aspects, physical activity level, and fall risk awareness: a cross-sectional study

RESUMO As quedas em idosos são capazes de impactar negativamente sobre diversos aspectos biopsicossociais. O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar a associação de quedas com características sociais, fatores econômicos, aspectos clínicos, nível de atividade física e percepção do risco de quedas em idosos caidores e não caidores. A amostra foi composta por 520 idosos (71,7±7,4 anos) de ambos os sexos (83,7% feminino) que foram entrevistados em relação às características sociais, fatores econômicos, aspectos clínicos, histórico de quedas, nível de atividade física (Minnesota) e percepção do risco de quedas (falls risk awareness questionnaire, PRQ). Para comparação foram utilizados os testes de Mann-Whitney e qui-quadrado e para associação os testes de regressão logística binária e multivariada. Após a análise de dados, identificamos que idosos caidores apresentaram menor escolaridade, classe econômica e PRQ. A escolaridade (OR: 1,35 a 1,28), classe econômica (OR: 1,62) e PRQ (OR: 1,46) apresentaram associação com as quedas, semelhante foi observado em idosos com duas ou mais quedas (escolaridade, OR: 2,44 a 1,92; PRQ, OR: 0,84). A análise de idosos com apenas uma queda evidenciou associação apenas com a PRQ (OR: 0,87). Conclui-se que idosos caidores apresentaram menor percepção do risco de quedas, nível de escolaridade e classe econômica. A PRQ demonstrou-se uma ferramenta importante para programas de prevenção de quedas, pois foi capaz de identificar fatores perceptuais sobre o risco de quedas que podem ser utilizados para avaliação e acompanhamento, bem como direcionar estes programas em idosos da comunidade.

RESUMEN Las caídas en ancianos pueden afectar negativamente varios aspectos biopsicosociales de esta población. El objetivo de este estudio fue verificar la asociación de caídas con las características sociales, los factores económicos, los aspectos clínicos, el nivel de actividad física y la percepción de riesgo de caídas en ancianos que caen y los que no caen. La muestra estuvo conformada por 520 ancianos (71,7±7,4 años) de ambos sexos (83,7% mujeres) que fueron entrevistados respecto de características sociales, factores económicos, aspectos clínicos, historia de caídas, nivel de actividad física (Minnesota) y percepción del riesgo de caídas (falls risk awareness questionnaire, PRQ). Para comparar los datos se utilizaron la prueba de Mann-Whitney y el test chi-cuadrado, y para asociarlos se emplearon las pruebas de regresión logística binaria y multivariante. El análisis de datos permitió identificar que los ancianos que caen tienen bajos niveles educativo, de clase económica y de PRQ. El nivel educativo (OR: 1,35 a 1,28), la clase económica (OR: 1,62) y la PRQ (OR: 1,46) se asociaron con las caídas de manera similar a lo que se observó en los ancianos con dos o más caídas (nivel educativo, OR: 2,44 a 1,92; PRQ, OR: 0,84). El análisis de ancianos con una sola caída mostró asociación solamente con la PRQ (OR: 0,87). Se concluye que los ancianos que caen tienen una percepción del riesgo de caídas, el nivel educativo y de clase económica bajos. La PRQ demostró ser útil para los programas de prevención de caídas, ya que permite identificar los factores de percepción sobre el riesgo de caídas que pueden utilizarse en la evaluación y seguimiento, así como en la aplicación de estos programas a ancianos de la comunidad.

ABSTRACT Falls in older adults can negatively affect several biopsychosocial aspects. This study aimed to verify the association of falls with social characteristics, economic factors, clinical aspects, physical activity level, and fall risk awareness in older adult fallers and non-fallers. The sample consisted of 520 older adult (71.7±7.4 years) of both sexes (83.7% female) who were interviewed regarding their social characteristics, economic factors, clinical aspects, fall history, physical activity level (Minnesota), and fall risk awareness (Falls Risk Awareness Questionnaire, FRAQ). The Mann-Whitney and Chi-square tests were used for comparison, and binary and multivariate logistic regression tests were used for association. After data analysis, we identified that older adult fallers presented lower education level, economic class, and fall risk awareness (FRAQ). Education level (OR: 1.35 to 1.28), economic class (OR: 1.62), and FRAQ (OR: 1.46) were associated with falls, which was also observed in older adult people with two or more falls (education level, OR: 2.44 to 1.92; FRAQ, OR: 0.84). The analysis of older adult people with only one fall presented an association only with FRAQ (OR: 0.87). We conclude that older adult fallers presented a lower fall risk awareness, education level, and economic class. FRAQ was an important tool for fall prevention programs, since it was able to identify perceptual factors about the risk of falls that can be used for assessment and follow-up, as well as for targeting these programs for older adults in the community.

Anthropometric indicators as a discriminator of sarcopenia in community-dwelling older adults of the Amazon region: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Sarcopenia is a geriatric syndrome associated with negative health outcomes and the use of viable alternative screening tools may help in the diagnosis of this condition. This study aimed to analyze the association of sarcopenia with anthropometric indicators among community-dwelling older adults and to identify cut-off points for such indicators as a discriminant criterion for predicting sarcopenia. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study conducted on community-dwelling older adults ≥60 years old (n = 411) of both sexes from Macapá, Amapá, Brazil. Socioeconomic, clinical and anthropometric data (arm circumference - AC, waist circumference - WC, calf circumference - CC and body mass index - BMI) were collected using a structured form. Sarcopenia was identified according to the EWGSOP 2 consensus. The association between anthropometric indicators and sarcopenia was performed using logistic regression and cut-off points established from the ROC Curve. Statistical significance was defined as p ≤ 0.05. RESULTS: Adjusted analysis indicated an independent and inverse association between sarcopenia and the anthropometric indicators: AC (odds ratio, OR: 0.63; 95% confidence interval, 95%CI: 0.53-0.76), CC (OR: 0.73; 95%CI: 0.62-0.85), WC (OR: 0.93; 95%CI: 0.90-0.97) and BMI (OR: 0.64; 95%CI: 0.53-0.76). The following cut-off points for older men and women represented the discriminant criterion for the presence of sarcopenia: WC (≤97 and ≤ 86 cm), CC (≤33 and ≤ 31 cm), AC (≤27 cm) and BMI (≤24.8 kg/m2 and ≤ 24.5 kg/m2) (area under the ROC curve superior to 0.70). BMI and AC were the indicators with the highest ability to discriminate older adults of both sexes with sarcopenia. CONCLUSIONS: An increase of one unit of the indicators can reduce the probability of occurrence of sarcopenia. All indicators were considered to discriminate the occurrence of sarcopenia, with emphasis on BMI and AC, and could be used to screen for this condition among community-dwelling older adults.

Development and validation of a method to screen for co-morbid depression by non-behavioral health practitioners treating musculoskeletal pain.

BACKGROUND: Although diagnosis and treatment of depressive illness is outside the scope of practice for non-behavioral health practitioners such as occupational therapists, physical therapists, kinesiotherapists, and chiropractors, it frequently is comorbid with painful musculoskeletal disorders such as low back pain and it negatively affects outcomes, including return to work. As psychologically-informed practice becomes more widely implemented without the immediate availability of behavioral health practitioners, safe and effective methods to screen for and appropriately triage depressive illness by nonbehavioral health practitioners are necessary. OBJECTIVES: To demonstrate the efficacy and validity of a method employed by non-behavioral health practitioners to screen for and appropriately triage musculoskeletal pain patients who also are experiencing depressive illness. METHODS: As part of a previously-published psychometric research study conducted in a community-based musculoskeletal pain rehabilitation program, a method was developed for nonbehavioral health practitioners to screen for and appropriately triage patients for co-morbid depressive illness, thus providing the current opportunity to examine the effects of depressive illness on work outcomes. The first step in the two-step process involves a 22-item questionnaire, providing scores used in the second step to triage for outside consultation with behavioral health practitioners. This paper describes the screening method and its application in an observational study of the impact of depressive illness on work outcomes. RESULTS: Among 156 consecutive patients who were presenting with musculoskeletal pain disorders to an outpatient rehabilitation program, 22.3% also were identified to have co-morbid clinical depression. The screening process allowed all patients to continue in the rehabilitation program. Those who were already receiving behavioral health care were encouraged to inform care providers of their participation in the program. Those who were not receiving behavioral health care were successfully triaged to care outside of the clinic. Depressive illness was found to affect success in the program, confirming the validity of the screening process for outpatient rehabilitation program participants experiencing chronic pain. CONCLUSIONS: A simple and effective depression screening process that triages patients without interruption of musculoskeletal treatment can be employed by nonbehavioral health practitioners. Because return to work outcomes were found to be negatively affected by depressive illness, this approach has the potential to improve overall program efficacy.

Rural gerontological health: Emergent questions for research, policy and practice.

This article explores what can be learned from the evolution of rural gerontology as a field of study to inform a more critical approach to the health of rural older adults. To counter the prevailing essentialism of highlighting the rural health disparities faced by older adults, there is a need to expand rural gerontological health research beyond deficit and medicalized understandings of health in rural communities. We argue that appreciating the interplay between unique health experiences, the complexity of the rural context and the continuum of older adult care is an important next step to foster advances in the field. Emergent questions for research, policy and practice are discussed and new directions for rural gerontological health are proposed.

Autopercepção de saúde em um grupo de idosos vinculados a um plano de saúde / Self-perceived health in a group of older adults covered by a health insurance plan

INTRODUÇÃO: A autopercepção de saúde por parte da pessoa idosa é uma ferramenta de grande importância por se tratar de indicador que representa aspectos de saúde tanto físicos quanto cognitivos e emocionais. OBJETIVOS: Apresentar como um grupo de idosos vinculado a um plano de saúde avalia sua autopercepção de saúde e quais as variáveis que interferem nessa percepção. METODOLOGIA: Trata-se de pesquisa quantitativa e transversal, com 148 idosos moradores da cidade de São Paulo (SP), durante o ano de 2017. As variáveis comparativas do estudo foram sexo, idade, estado civil, desempenho das atividades básicas de vida diária e instrumentais de vida diária, qualidade do sono, presença de lazer, número de doenças e de medicamentos de uso contínuo. Para análise estatística, utilizaram-se os testes t de Student, χ2 ou exato de Fisher, quando necessário, além de regressão logística. RESULTADOS: Foram encontradas relações significativas entre uma má percepção de saúde e as variáveis: sexo feminino, presença de polifarmácia, número de doenças, qualidade do sono e desempenho nas atividades instrumentais de vida diária. A dependência para as atividades instrumentais de vida diária faz com que esses idosos tenham 5,33 vezes mais chances de ter má autopercepção de saúde. Cada comorbidade acrescida ao estado de saúde desse grupo incrementa 1,39 vez as chances de má autopercepção de saúde. CONCLUSÃO: A autopercepção de saúde nesse grupo é influenciada por inúmeras variáveis, mas o grau de dependência e o número de doenças foram as de maior impacto.

INTRODUCTION: Self-perceived health reported by older adults is a tool of great importance for the health care system as it provides an indicator representing physical, cognitive, and emotional aspects of health. OBJECTIVE: To report how a group of older adults covered by a health insurance plan evaluate their self-perceived health and which variables influence their perception. METHODS: This quantitative cross-sectional study included 148 older adults living in the city of São Paulo, Brazil, in 2017. The study variables were sex, age, marital status, performance in basic activities of daily living and instrumental activities of daily living, sleep quality, leisure activity, number of diseases, and use of continuous medication. Statistical analysis was performed using Student's t-test, χ2 test, or Fisher's exact test, and logistic regression was used. RESULTS: Significant relationships were observed between poor self-perceived health and the following variables: being female, polypharmacy, number of diseases, sleep quality, and performance in instrumental activities of daily living. Dependence on the instrumental activities of daily living made these older adults 5.33 times more likely to have poor self-perceived health. Each comorbidity added to the health status of this group increased the chance of poor self-perceived health by 1.39 times. CONCLUSION: Self-perceived health in this group of older adults is influenced by several variables; however, degree of dependence and number of diseases were those with the greatest impact.

Julgamento clínico do enfermeiro na avaliação do risco de quedas / The clinical judgment of nurses in fall risk assessment

OBJETIVO: Descrever o julgamento clínico realizado pelo enfermeiro no processo de avaliação do risco de quedas de idosos durante período de internação. MÉTODOS: pesquisa exploratória, descritiva, de abordagem qualitativa desenvolvida em três hospitais do município de Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, conveniados ao Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS). Fizeram parte da pesquisa 18 enfermeiros lotados nas clinicas médicas e cirúrgicas. Os dados foram coletados de março a agosto de 2013 por entrevista semiestruturada e analisados pela análise temática e sob ótica da Teoria do Julgamento Clínico de Tanner (2006). RESULTADOS: A avaliação do risco de quedas dos idosos é realizada de forma assistemática e superficial. A admissão do paciente foi considerada o momento mais adequado para se coletar os dados e avaliar o risco de quedas dos idosos, além da passagem de plantão e/ou visitas aos pacientes, conversas/troca de informações com a equipe de recepção do hospital. A identificação dos indícios ou fatores de risco de quedas dos pacientes, geração das inferências e emissão do parecer são realizados. A validação das inferências não foi identificada. CONCLUSÕES: Conclui-se que as duas etapas iniciais do julgamento clínico ­ o reconhecimento e a interpretação ­ ocorrem de maneira assistemática, incompleta e inconsistente, podendo gerar avaliações imprecisas do risco de quedas de idosos hospitalizados.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to describe the clinical judgment of nurses in fall risk assessment for hospitalized older adults. METHOD: This exploratory, descriptive study with a qualitative approach was conducted in Unified Health System hospitals in Cuiabá, MT, Brazil. A total of 18 nurses in medical and surgical clinics participated. The data were collected from March to August 2013 using a semi-structured interview and were assessed through thematic analysis based on Tanner's clinical judgment model (2006). RESULTS: Fall risk evaluation in older adults is performed unsystematically and superficially. The nurses considered the most appropriate time to collect data and assess the fall risk of older patients to be at patient admission, although shift changes, patient visits, conversations or information exchange with hospital reception staff contributed. Although the signs or factors of patient fall risk were identified, inferences were produced and opinions were issued, the inferences were not validated. CONCLUSIONS: The two initial stages of CJ ­ recognition and interpretation ­ are unsystematic, incomplete and inconsistent, which can lead to inaccurate assessment of fall risk among hospitalized older adults.

Factors associated to the dependence of older adults with diabetes mellitus type 2 / Factores asociados a la dependencia entre ancianos con diabetes mellitus tipo 2 / Fatores associados à dependência entre idosos com diabetes mellitus tipo 2

ABSTRACT Objective: to identify factors associated to the dependence of older adults with Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 Method: analytical and epidemiological study with 99 older adults. The Brazilian Multidimensional Functional Assessment Questionnaire and a questionnaire composed by socio-demographic and clinical variables were used. The independent variables were described and compared to the level of dependence obtained by the chi-square test or the Fisher test, the strength of association was estimated by Odds Ratio and multiple regression. Results: the level of dependence prevailed in 79.8% of the sample. Higher chances of dependence were associated to: cutting toenails; performing household chores; presenting geriatric problems; urinary incontinence; time of diagnosis of diabetes; falls in the past year; and physical inactivity. Conclusion: considering the positive association of diabetes mellitus to the increased chance of dependence among older adults, there is need for direction and adoption of effective measures to ensure the functionality and quality of life of older adults with diabetes mellitus in a fair and democratic way.

RESUMEN Objetivo: identificar factores asociados a la posibilidad de dependencia entre ancianos con diabetes mellitus (DM) tipo 2. Método: estudio epidemiológico-analítico con amuestra de 99 ancianos. Para la recolección de los datos, han sido utilizados el Cuestionario Brasileño de Evaluación Funcional Multidimensional y un cuestionario con variables sociodemográficas y clínicas. Se describieron las variables independientes comparándolas con el grado de dependencia obtenido por medio de la prueba Chi-Cuadrado o de Fisher, y se estimó la fuerza de asociación por odds ratio y regresión múltiple. Resultados: prevaleció el nivel de dependencia en el 79,8% de la amuestra. Se asociaron a una mayor posibilidad de dependencia: cortar las uñas de los pies; desarrollar actividad de limpieza doméstica; presentar problemas geriátricos; incontinencia urinaria; tiempo de diagnóstico de diabetes; caída en el último año; e inactividad física. Conclusión: considerándose la asociación positiva de DM con el aumento de la posibilidad de dependencia entre ancianos, se evidencia la necesidad de direccionamiento y adopción de medidas eficaces para garantir la funcionalidad y calidad de vida de los ancianos con DM de manera ecuánime y democrática.

RESUMO Objetivo: identificar fatores associados à dependência entre idosos com Diabetes Mellitus (DM) tipo 2. Método: estudo epidemiológico-analítico com 99 idosos. Utilizados o Questionário Brasileiro de Avaliação Funcional Multidimensional e um questionário com variáveis sociodemográficas e clínicas. Descreveram-se as variáveis independentes comparando-as com o grau de dependência obtido pelo teste do Qui-Quadrado ou de Fisher, e estimou-se a força de associação por Odds Ratio e regressão múltipla. Resultados: prevaleceu o nível de dependência em 79,8% da amostra. Associaram-se com maior chance de dependência: cortar unhas dos pés; realizar limpeza doméstica; apresentar problemas geriátricos; incontinência urinária; tempo de diagnóstico de diabetes; queda no último ano; e inatividade física. Conclusão: considerando-se a associação positiva do DM com o aumento da chance de dependência entre idosos, há necessidade de direcionamento e adoção de medidas eficazes para garantir a funcionalidade e qualidade de vida dos idosos com DM de maneira equânime e democrática.

Family health strategy: relevance to the functional capacity of older people / Estrategia salud de la familia: relevancia para la capacidad funcional de los ancianos / Estratégia saúde da família: relevância para a capacidade funcional de idosos

ABSTRACT Objective: to identify the functional capacity of older people based on their performance on basic activities of daily living. Method: a cross-sectional study, carried out through the record of the Family Health teams working in the urban area of a city in northern Minas Gerais, in 2015. To assess the functional capacity of 373 older people, the Katz Scale was applied, which includes dimensions on the performance of daily living activities. The interviews took place in the participants' households. Results: of the total participants, 6.9% had some degree of dependence. Those aged over 80 years old and were living without a partner had about three times more chances of presenting higher levels of functional dependence. Conclusion: most older people enrolled in a Family Health Strategy had their functional capacity preserved.

RESUMEN Objetivo: identificar la capacidad funcional de los ancianos con base en el desempeño para las actividades básicas de la vida diaria. Método: el estudio de delineamiento transversal, realizado por medio de los registros de equipos de Salud de la Familia que actúan en el área urbana de una ciudad del Norte de Minas Gerais, en el año de 2015. Para evaluar la capacidad funcional de 373 ancianos se aplicó la Escala de Katz, que contempla dimensiones sobre la realización de actividades de la vida diaria. Las encuestas ocurrieron en los domicilios de los participantes. Resultados: Del total de ancianos, el 6,9% poseían algún grado de dependencia. Aquellos con edades arriba de 80 años y que vivían sin compañero(a) tuvieron, aproximadamente, el triplo de chances de presentar niveles más elevados de dependencia funcional. Conclusión: Los ancianos registrados en un equipo de la Estrategia de Salud de la Familia poseían, en su gran parte, la capacidad funcional preservada.

RESUMO Objetivo: identificar a capacidade funcional de idosos com base no desempenho para as atividades básicas de vida diária. Método: estudo de delineamento transversal, realizado por meio dos registros de equipes de Saúde da Família que atuam na área urbana de uma cidade do Norte de Minas Gerais, no ano de 2015. Para avaliar a capacidade funcional de 373 idosos aplicou-se a Escala de Katz, que contempla dimensões sobre a realização de atividades da vida diária. As entrevistas ocorreram nos domicílios dos participantes. Resultados: do total de idosos, 6,9% possuíam algum grau de dependência. Aqueles com idades acima de 80 anos e que viviam sem companheiro(a) tiveram, aproximadamente, o triplo de chances de apresentar níveis mais elevados de dependência funcional. Conclusão: os idosos cadastrados em uma equipe da Estratégia de Saúde da Família possuíam, em sua maioria, capacidade funcional preservada.