Introduction:

This article is an important contribution to the application of Callista Roy's Adaptation Model to groups.

Objective:

To promote adaptive behaviors through primary health care strategies for a group of chronically ill older adults living in a municipality in the department of Cundinamarca, Colombia.

Materials and methods:

A qualitative participatory action research approach was used. A nurse used participant observation and characterized the community; besides, with exploratory questions, the nurse enabled them to identify their problems and suggest strategies for improvement, including for their own health. Subsequently, the nursing care process was applied.

Results:

Group behavior was assessed through the following modes of adaptation: physiologic adaptation, self concept or group identity, role-function adaptation or unit of social functioning and social integrity, and interdependence adaptation or social context in which the group functions.

Discussion:

Applying Roy's model in practice makes it possible to identify negative situations in groups, promote innovative coping processes, and control environmental stimuli in a community. Assessment skills must be sharp, as they are key to applying Roy's model to community practice.

Conclusions:

The stimuli that trigger the main adaptation problems were identified, and a nursing care plan was implemented developing adaptation strategies, such as home visits, intergenerational meetings, community participation with support groups created by the municipality, and health education, to promote group adaptation.

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