Grupo de atividade física como estratégia de cuidado para pessoas idosas na atenção primária

Abstract

The human aging process is a natural, social, irreversible and global phenomenon, not limited to biological degeneration, which demands new economic, political and sociocultural challenges. The population has experienced an exponential growth in life expectancy, concurrently with important epidemiological changes, such as the increase in the burden of chronic diseases in the world population. The practice of group physical activity during the aging process contributes to the improvement of physical fitness and cognitive function in the elderly. This is an experience report arising from the experiences of a resident in the area of Physical Education of the Multiprofessional Residency Program in Primary Care of the MultiCampi School of Medical Sciences of the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, during insertion in the territories assigned to the Valdete Minervino Basic Health Unit of the Walfredo Gurgel Neighborhood, located in the west zone of the city of Caicó/RN, during the year 2023 and 2024. In view of the above, recognizing that the continuous adoption of physical activity for the elderly is crucial for the preservation of health, the study report seeks to present which aspects are considered relevant in the development of physical activity with a group of elderly people and how they influence their well-being, health in general. The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between physical activity and body image, social involvement, and the physical and mental health of elderly people receiving care in Primary Health Care. During the meetings, it became clear that the practice offered benefits in several areas of life, such as socialization, body movement, and changes in habits, including better nutrition, greater body awareness, and stress relief. In addition, the feeling of belonging contributed to adherence to care practices.