The concept of getting old among family health professionals

Abstract

The present work aimed at identifying the concept of getting old according to nurses and doctors who act in the Family Health Program. Twelve professionals were interviewed, of which 5 were doctors and 7 were nurses who develop professional activities in Family Health Basic Units. Results allowed us to identify the following categories: biological stress, loss of autonomy and social isolation. We concluded that family health professionals are important actors in the assistance of the elderly but they shall widen their concepts on getting old so that they can expand their intervention strategies.