OLIVEIRA, L. R.; http://lattes.cnpq.br/1691724345342542; OLIVEIRA, Larissa Rolim de.
Abstract:
Leprosy being a disease of infectious or contagious chronic disease, which affects the
peripheral nervous system, causes loss of sensation and muscle paralysis that when not
diagnosed and treated appropriately can evolve into permanent physical disabilities. The
appearance of disabilities before or after treatment of the disease can be a great indicator
of quality of life and social participation. Considering the existence of a Self-Care
Group (SCG) in Cajazeiras - PB, where it stimulates the prevention of disabilities and
self-care, we aimed to assess the limitation of activities and the social participation
among the SCG users in leprosy, tracing a socio-demographic profile and verifying the
existence of relationship among the scores of the scales by also assessing the limitation
of activities and the social participation of the group members. The research was of a
descriptive, exploratory and quantitative kind, effected with the participants in the
meetings of the SCG which are held in the Health Department of Cajazeiras, where
through contact, a search was made in their households. The period of data collection
occurred during one week, at the homes of the participants from 11.14.2011 to
11/18/2011. The data collection instruments utilized were a form of identification, the
SALSA scale and the scale of social participation. The results that we can highlight are
that of the 7 research participants, 57% are male. 43% are aged between 47 and 58, 57%
have an incomplete elementary education schooling, 86% live in urban areas and
household income ranges from less than one minimum wage up to 3 minimum wages,
leaving only 14% with an income greater than 3 salaries. The score of risk awareness of
the SALSA scale varied in equal proportions at 1, 2 and 3 points; 72% of the
participants have mild limitation, according to the SALSA score and in the scale of
participation 43% marked no restriction on the total scores. The obtained results are
important contributions for a reflection concerning the relationship that exists between
the scales applied and adherence to the use of both for evaluation of limitation on
activities and social participation at the time of the disease diagnosis, during treatment
and post-discharge. Warning about the importance of looking at the patients as a whole,
both in the physical sphere, as well as psychic and social, in order to improve the
actions of prevention of disabilities, ensuring a better quality of life for individuals
affected by leprosy.
