Quality of life and self-perception of health among adult and elderly participants in a social group

an experience report

Abstract

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: With the ongoing aging of the population, it is essential to discuss healthcare that promotes well-being and disease prevention. In this sense, health education is an important tool for empowering individuals, resulting in improved living conditions and reduced illnesses. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the quality of life and self-perception of health of participants in an elderly community group in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais. METHODOLOGY: Cross-sectional study with a convenience sample composed of 12 participants from a community group. Meetings were held from August to December 2022, and sociodemographic information, health data, and quality of life were collected using the SF-36 instrument, as well as promoting educational activities aimed at improving the health of the elderly. RESULTS: The participants showed greater awareness regarding their health, based on information about nutrition, sleep, emotional state, medications used, and comorbidities. A correlation was observed in the SF-36 between the lower Mental Health score and lower scores in Social Aspects and Limitations due to Emotional Aspects, as well as a correlation between the lower pain score and lower score for Limitations due to Physical Aspects. CONCLUSION: It is possible to stimulate the development of practices that favor a healthier lifestyle through the approach of prevalent public health topics in groups of elderly people, with the aim of maintaining functionality, independence, autonomy, promoting well-being and preventing diseases.