ELDERLY’S HEALTH IN PRIMARY CARE IN THE CITY OF JOÃO PESSOA: THE USER’S VIEW LOOK OF THE USER

Abstract

Introduction: The aging of Brazilian population has been bringing many challenges for public health system. Demographic studies accomplished in Brazil by means of the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics have pointed that the population of the country is growing older. Reduction in the demographic and speed growth rate of aged population have evidenced a demand for better public health policies, as well as a need for restructuring attendance and professional training in order to deal with this new situation. Purpose: To describe elderly’s health care by Family Health Units (FHUs) in the city of João Pessoa, according to users’ reports. Methods: To this end, we adopted a sectional observational research design and considered the individual as observation unit. Accordingly, the sample consisted of 109 individuals belonging to the Health District III. The data collection instrument was a questionnaire containing general questions and specific information about health care in primary care. Gathering was performed through semi-structured interview. Data were analyzed qualitatively by means of the content analysis technique. Results: Most respondents were female (79.8%), aged 66 to 76 (54.2%), education: primary education (76.2%) whose family income wages ranged from 1 to 3 (55%). The study showed there is a concern of the municipality in providing quality of care to the elderly population, encompassing since medical appointments to socialization and recreation activities. Nevertheless, primary care was found to be still inefficient. Conclusion: Among the main findings of this study are: the non-resolution of health needs and demands of the elderly population; the positive relationship between the activities provided by the FHU and the knowledge of the elderly about the services offered, as well as and the use of primary care as the gateway to health services. DESCRIPTORS: Aging health. Primary Care. Health Services Needs and Demand.