Educação em saúde e a construção mútua das práticas: aplicação em um centro de convivência para idosos

Abstract

Abstract: Brazil is undergoing a great change in its demographic profile over the past decades. This phenomenon occurs due to the increase in life expectancy, increasing elderly population in demographic terms. The present study aims to describe the performance of health education activities and the mutual construction of health practices in a community center for the elderly. This is a descriptive study in the form of an experience report, using the theoretical precepts of Orem and Paulo Freire to support the educational practices developed in meetings with the elderly in a community center, in Fortaleza, Ceará State, Brazil, from January to December 2015. In order to meet the proposed guidelines for the implementation of extension strategies, it was decided to apply ludic activities and active methods, through the use of educational workshops, dynamics, videos, and conversation groups, aiming to encourage moments of discussion and reflections on the subject. At the end of the activities, positive aspects were observed in the elderly, since it provided a position of greater control/autonomy in the pursuit of their quality of life. In general, it is believed that the activities with the elderly enabled the construction of a receptive, affectionate, harmonious and solidarity space, maintaining the importance of the group process as a fundamental resource to cope with loneliness, building bonds and expanding supporting network for the participants.