Vulnerabilidade de pessoas idosas atendidas na estratégia saúde da família em Parnamirim (RN): análise e contribuições para a atenção à saúde

Abstract

Introduction: Family, social, and governmental support, as well as available resources, influence the vulnerability of older adults. In this context, the Senior Citizen's Record (CPI) is a valuable tool for documenting risk factors and priority care demands. Objective: To analyze the vulnerability of older adults served by the Family Health Strategy (ESF) in Parnamirim, Rio Grande do Norte. Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective cross-sectional study based on secondary data from the primary healthcare sector in the municipality of Parnamirim, Rio Grande do Norte. A total of 733 participants with completed CPIs were included. The primary outcome of this study is the vulnerability of older adults, which was measured using the VES-13 instrument available in the CPI. Data were transferred from Microsoft Excel® to Stata/IC v.16, where descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were conducted. Independence tests, Pearson’s chi-square, and Fisher’s exact tests were used to identify associations between predictor variables and vulnerability status. Results: The results show that the investigated population is mostly married, literate (69.9%), and has hypertension as the most prevalent comorbidity. Exposure to home risks and inactive lifestyles were common. The majority of participants (71.49%) were classified as robust, while 8.87% were frail, requiring special attention from Primary Health Care (PHC). Variables such as sex, education, marital status, hypertension, use of psychotropic medications, memory loss, chronic pain, physical activity, and leisure were associated with vulnerability (p<0.05). As part of this study, a practical guide was developed, designed as a Technical-Therapeutic Product (TTP), to guide healthcare professionals in the standardized application of the CPI, highlighting its potential to systematize care and inform public policies aimed at healthy aging. This guide represents a significant advancement in strengthening practices in PHC, promoting the reduction of health inequalities and comprehensive care for the older population. Conclusion: The findings reinforce the need for interdisciplinary interventions and policies promoting healthy aging. The CPI stands out as an essential tool and should be regularly used and updated in older adult care within PHC. This Master’s Thesis is the result of the stricto sensu graduate program Professional Master’s in Family Health (PROFSAÚDE).