Diseases chronicles do not encephalopathies in the elderly: knowledges and actions from community health agents

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the knowledge and actions performed by Community Health Agents (CHA), related to chronic non-communicable diseases (CNCDs) in elderly patients. Method: Qualitative and descriptive research. The data collection occurred through interviews with 20 ACS. The information was analyzed following the steps of content analysis. Results: The data converged for the construction of two categories. One is about knowledge for CHA performance, and the other the educative actions performed by CHA with the elderly population. Final considerations: They were identified limitations in the knowledge and actions developed by CHA regarding the CNCD in elderly, restricting the care concerning diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. This condition reflects in the work of these professionals, but it can be modified with educational actions intended to CHA, for which they can qualify their practices along with the elderly population.