Visions of the Elderly on Quality of Life in the Family Health Strategy: a Study in the Light of Theory of Giving

Authors

  • Thazia Costa
  • Rafaela Araújo Oliveira
  • Bruno Araújo da Silva Dantas
  • Maisa Paulino Rodrigues
  • Ricardo Henrique Vieira de Melo
  • Gilson de Vasconcelos Torres
  • Rosana Lúcia Alves de Vilar Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.3823/2224

Abstract

Background: To analyze the views of seniors belonging to the Francisco André Coexistence Group about the quality of life in the light of the sociological contributions of the Marcel Mauss’ Theory of Gift.

Method: This is a descriptive and exploratory study, with a qualitative approach, with eleven senior citizens of a support group, attached to the Family Health Strategy, of the neighborhood of Igapó, located in Natal-RN. Data were collected using focus groups, and then analyzed based on the thematic analysis content method.

Results: In the view of seniors, the meaning of quality of life was vocalized expressing a polysemic sense related to multiple aspects, highlighting the health status and the reciprocity discussed in the system of the gift. The statements confirmed that the experiences in the group have contributed to improving the quality of life in the several aspects related to the physical and functional capacity, as well as in the emotional and social aspects related to the creation of bonds and improvement of self-esteem. Furthermore, they signaled positive repercussions on the general health status.

Conclusions: The feelings of thankfulness expressed by the group, as well as recognition of the importance of trade and reciprocity in the group, the learning in educational activities and the reflexes projected in the life of each of them; indicated current changes and gifts.

Keywords: Health of the Elderly; Quality of Life; Family Health.

Author Biographies

Thazia Costa

Nursing, Family Health Master, Nursing Department - Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte (RN), Brazil.

Rafaela Araújo Oliveira

Undergraduate student, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte (RN), Brazil.

Bruno Araújo da Silva Dantas

Nursing, Master, Nursing Department - Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte (RN), Brazil.

Maisa Paulino Rodrigues

Dentist, PhD in Health Sciences, Professor at Dentistry Department - Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte (RN), Brazil.

Ricardo Henrique Vieira de Melo

Dentist, Family Health Master, Secretary Municipal Health of Natal, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte (RN), Brazil.

Gilson de Vasconcelos Torres

PhD, Full Professor at Nursing Department - Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte (RN), Brazil.

Rosana Lúcia Alves de Vilar, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte

Nursing, PhD in Social Sciences, Professor at Nursing Department - Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal (RN), Brazil.

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Published

2016-12-21

Issue

Vol. 9 (2016)

Section

Geriatrics

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