PERFIL CLÍNICO E FUNCIONAL DE IDOSAS RESIDENTES EM UM CONVENTO NA CIDADE DE SALVADOR-BA

Abstract

Introduction: The natural aging process occurs gradually over the years, and greater health difficulties are observed when aging results in high levels of functional decline (FD). Objective: To understand the clinical and functional profile of elderly women living in a convent in the city of Salvador-Ba. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive quantitative study conducted in June 2024. Included were nuns aged 70 years or older who are part of the Physical Therapy Internship Program at the Catholic University of Salvador. Data collection instruments: a questionnaire developed by the authors, the Mini-Mental State Examination, the Modified Barthel Index, and the Numerical Pain Rating Scale. Results: The study included 24 nuns, most from the interior of Bahia with a high school education. All had comorbidities, including systemic arterial hypertension, osteoporosis, and cognitive deficits (75%). All the elderly women presented some degree of functional dependence and some type of pain. Conclusions: Limitations on the autonomy and independence of the elderly make them more vulnerable, with greater risks of falls, physical disabilities, and deaths. Thus, understanding the clinical-functional profile can serve as a basis for the scientific community and health promotion.