THE ROLE OF PHYSIOTHERAPY IN ELDERLY HEALTH

A REPORT ON EDUCATIONAL AND PREVENTIVE INTERVENTIONS IN DIFFERENT SOCIAL CONTEXTS

Abstract

Abstract

Introduction: Population aging is a natural and growing phenomenon worldwide. More than increasing longevity, it is essential to guarantee quality of life in old age. The increase in life expectancy brings challenges related to health and well-being, requiring strategies that promote autonomy, disease prevention, and social inclusion. In this context, interaction with the elderly population allows for the articulation of theory and practice, bringing academic learning closer to the real needs of this population. This experience fosters acceptance, attentive listening, and the implementation of educational activities aimed at promoting health and active aging. Objective: To report the experience gained in health education activities with elderly people in reference institutions focused on this population. Methodology: This is a qualitative and descriptive study, focusing on health education, developed in the discipline of Physiotherapy in Elderly Health. The interventions were planned in meetings among the participants, in order to organize strategies appropriate to the demands of the population served. The actions were conducted in accordance with bioethical principles and in compliance with Resolution No. 466/12 of the National Health Council, which regulates research with human beings. Results and discussion: The first action took place in April 2025, at the Parish of the Divine Holy Spirit (Fortaleza-CE), with approximately 20 elderly people. Educational brochures on fall prevention were distributed, discussion groups and physiotherapy assessments were held, in addition to stretching, mobility, balance and coordination workshops. The second intervention took place in May 2025, at the Recanto Sagrado Coração Shelter, also in Fortaleza. The students learned about the residents' routine and adapted the activities to their physical conditions, prioritizing humanized and individualized approaches. In this environment, the receptiveness of the elderly and the importance of the affective bond in care were highlighted. The experiences favored technical learning and personal development. In the Pastoral Care for the Elderly, balance, strength and cognition exercises were applied, which are fundamental in the prevention of falls and osteoporosis. Active listening proved essential, enabling greater empathy, respect, and understanding of the group's needs. These experiences contributed to professional development, fostering critical awareness and social responsibility, as well as reinforcing the perception that care for the elderly should be comprehensive and humanized. Conclusion: Population aging requires care that goes beyond technique, encompassing empathy, listening, and the promotion of autonomy. The experiences demonstrated the relevance of health education in fall prevention and in promoting active aging, highlighting the importance of integrating theory and practice in the training process. The experience enabled academic and personal growth, reinforcing that aging with quality is a right that must be ensured through joint action between family, state, community, and health professionals.

Keywords: Population aging; Quality of life; Prevention; Falls.