Educational activities with groups of elderly people in a family health unit

Abstract

The aim of the study was to describe methods of educational activities developed for groups of elderly people in the Basic Units of Attention to Family Health. It is a descriptive study using a qualitative approach, in which the data were collected through interviews and participant observation. Data analysis focused on the strategies used to gather and to develop group activities, and on the topics discussed in the meetings. The groups consisted of people suffering of degenerative chronic diseases. The weekly group meetings aim at the individual change of behavior and lifestyle, emphasizing the practice of physical activities. Health education represents an essential element for individual and collective critical awareness. However, there are difficulties to take health education actions based on an interdisciplinary view, what must be regarded as a responsibility of all the members of the team of health professionals in the Basic Units of Attention to Family Health.