Resumo

VARELA L, Luz Estella et al. Profile of some psychosocial conditions in a group of senior citizens. Rev. Fac. Nac. Salud Pública [online]. 2006, vol.24, n.2, pp.37-50. ISSN 0120-386X.

Objective: to expose some psychosocial components of senior citizens from Caldas, Antioquia, in order to identify protective and deteriorating processes for human and social development of this population group. Materials and methods: this is a cross-sectional descriptive study with intervention features that takes into account elements of critical epidemiology. A stratified multistage survey was conducted as a quantitative technique for collection of data, and for the qualitative component an intentional sampling was performed. Results: despite the fact that some deteriorating aspects in the level of psychosocial health for senior citizens were found with the application of a geriatric scale of depression (intended to show depression morbid conditions), a reduced number of depressed individuals was found. Conclusions: Caldas senior citizens have several compensating socio-cultural mechanisms that into context allow them to face vulnerabilities, to adapt to these and to achieve a more or less successful ageing. This senior citizens group identified vulnerabilities should enhance the diagnostic of their conditions in order to promote the development of public policies against deteriorating processes, while protective processes should be encourage by different sectors asked to join efforts for the senior citizen protection.

Palavras-chave : Psychosocial conditions; protective and deteriorating processes.

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