THE SOCIODEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH PROFILE OF ELDERLY DIABETICS PATIENTS IN PRIMARY CARE.

Abstract

Aim: We conducted a descriptive study population survey of elderly diabetic family health program in a basic health unit (BHU) in order to study their socio-demographic profile and health. Material an method: Sex, age, education, marital status, time of diagnosis of diabetes, hearing and cognitive status, comorbidities and functional capacity by the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) were collected by interview. Student t test and Mann-Whitney test were used adopting a significance level α=5%. Results: Participants had a mean age of 70.96 ± 7.20 years (68.8% female), with time of study between four and seven years (48.7%), time of diagnosis between 10 to 20 years (30.6%). We found high rates of comorbidities (hypertension - 81.3%) and functional independence in HAQ (72%). Conclusion: The increase in the number of elderly people and higher prevalence of chronic diseases like diabetes and its comorbidities / disability make it necessary to revisit the health care in the basic unit, aiming to the implementation of promotional activities interdisciplinary and especially the guidance of elders, their carers and families in the process of self-care and the prospect of maintaining the autonomy and independence. DESCRIPTORS Diabetes mellitus. Aging. Public Health.