Conhecimento de pessoas idosas acerca de quedas na atenção primária em saúde.

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the knowledge of elderly people in Primary Health Care (PHC) about the risk of falls. Methodology: Exploratory, descriptive research, with a qualitative approach. The participants were 14 elderly people who attended a Basic Health Unit and who were residents of the municipality of Campina Grande – PB. The interview was used using a semi-structured script, and, based on the data obtained, the content analysis proposed by Bardin was carried out. It followed the ethical precepts of Resolution No. 466/2012 of the National Health Council, being approved by the UFCG Ethics and Research Committee under opinion No. 5,581,186. Results: The majority of participants were women, aged between 70 and 79 years old. Most of those interviewed reported having suffered a fall in the last six months. All interviewees claim to prevent falls, although they had difficulties in listing aspects related to factors, preventive habits, and risks related to falls. They feel self-responsible for preventing health problems caused by falls. Three participants stated that they had been instructed by nurses from the service on preventing injuries caused by falls. Final Considerations: Elderly people have some knowledge about falls, but there are limitations, perhaps related to the lack of guidance from nurses and other health professionals. The need for restructuring in the current health education model of primary health care is evident so that health instructions are guaranteed to the population, with a view to adequately preventing falls, as well as preserving the quality of life and autonomy of elderly people.