(In)capacidade funcional de idosos de uma comunidade urbana no municipio de Picos PI

Abstract

The study addresses the functional (in)capacity of elderly people in an urban community in the municipality of Picos-PI, a relevant topic due to population aging and its impacts on quality of life. This is applied research of a quantitative and descriptive nature, whose general objective was to analyze the functional (in)capacity of the local elderly population. To this end, the sociodemographic profile was characterized, the prevalence of functional disability was estimated and the associated risk factors were identified. Data collection used validated instruments, such as the Barthel Index, applied to a sample defined by previously established inclusion and exclusion criteria. The results indicated that the regular practice of physical activities and social support are determining factors for the preservation of functional capacity, while a sedentary lifestyle and social isolation proved to be significant risk factors. The research concludes that strategies that promote active aging, focusing on physical, social and health interventions, are fundamental to reducing the prevalence of functional disability and improving the quality of life of the elderly. The study contributes to the planning of public policies and interventions aimed at promoting healthy aging.