Primary health care: nutritional and functional profile of elderly people

DOI: 10.15343/0104-7809.200731.3.10

Abstract

The AIM of this study was to establish the nutritional and functional profile of elderly people treated in the nutrition
ward of José Paranhos Fontenelle Clinic (Rio de Janeiro - Brazil) for their first medical care. The research involved the participation of
35 people. It was based on anthropometric assessment and collected data on socio-economic, biochemical and dietary factors. It also
included an investigation about their daily life activities to evaluate the results of care. Taking into account socio-economical aspects,
the study shows that 44.4% of men and 57.7% of women have an income less than two Brazilian minimum wages. Concerning the
anthropometric assessment it was observed a high prevalence of obesity for both sexes, besides a high risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Arterial hypertension was the most frequent disease among males (55.5%), and dyslipidemia among females (88.4%). In relation to
Daily Life Activities (DLA`s), the ones they showed more difficulties to perform were climbing stairs (40%), taking a bus (25.7%) and
trimming toes nails (23.07%). In relation to dietary intake, a high amount of rice, bread and beans consumption was detected. The most
frequently consumed protein source was chicken meat. Despite this, a low consumption of fruits and vegetables persists that justifies
an adequate nutritional orientation.