Impactos da forma crônica da Chikungunya na capacidade funcional e na qualidade de vida de idosos: uma revisão integrativa.

Abstract

Functional capacity is closely linked to quality of life, and impairments in its performance, especially due to infection with the Chikungunya virus, lead to dysfunctions in performing daily activities, particularly in the elderly. This population group often experiences physical and motor limitations, which become predictive factors of emotional suffering. Chikungunya fever, particularly in its chronic form, is among the most prevalent viral infections in the elderly. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to conduct an integrative literature review to assess the impacts of chronic Chikungunya on functional capacity and quality of life in older adults. The research was conducted using the SCIELO database and the National Library of Medicine's PubMed search service, with a ten-year time frame, up until March 2025. Articles in Portuguese, English, and Spanish were considered, addressing topics related to Chikungunya, epidemiology, rehabilitation, and quality of life in the elderly. The result consisted of a sample of seven articles. In the data analysis, the following categories were used: Chikungunya; classifications of Chikungunya; manifestations of chronic Chikungunya; persistent arthralgia; presence of pain; functional capacity from older adults; disability; joint stiffness; quality of life in older adults. In conclusion, it is observed that, although a recent topic, it has been widely discussed in several countries, reflecting the high global prevalence of the problem. The studies reviewed present diverse results, each addressing different aspects impacted by the chronicity of the disease. Regarding the consequences of chronic Chikungunya in older adults, osteoarticular manifestations stand out, leading to severe mobility limitations and impairments in functional capacity, as well as exacerbating pre-existing conditions, such as chronic diseases. It was found that, among the more frail elderly, the loss of autonomy during an acute episode may trigger or worsen long-term dependence. Finally, the literature suggests approaches for managing this arboviral disease, recommending immediate and specific control actions to be implemented by epidemiological surveillance, focusing on proper symptom monitoring in its various stages.