Promoção da saúde e linhas de cuidado para a pessoa idosa na Atenção Primária à Saúde: grupos operativos, equipe multiprofissional e participação social no Sistema Único de Saúde

Abstract

In view of the doctrinal principles of the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS) — universality, equity and comprehensiveness — it is of great importance that care be directed to the great Brazilian demographic transition, with comprehensive care for older adults, since the population is aging and the age pyramid is changing. This article aims to analyze health promotion strategies and care pathways for older adults in Primary Health Care (PHC), with emphasis on operative groups, the multiprofessional team and social participation. This is a descriptive bibliographic review based on SUS regulatory documents, institutional publications and scientific literature on health promotion and aging. The analysis indicates that the 1988 Federal Constitution establishes health as a right of all and a duty of the State, directing PHC as the gateway to SUS and the main entity responsible for health promotion strategies for older adults. The coordination of care following care pathways — such as walking and well-being groups and groups for hypertensive, diabetic and smoking patients — is combined with the comprehensive and longitudinal care exercised by PHC, with physicians, nurses and community health agents promoting continued care. In planning public policies aimed at promoting the well-being and health of older adults, managers must seek indicators that justify financial transfers. It is concluded that, within a national network of comprehensive health care for older adults, the system must prepare for population aging, clearly owing good health care, with strategies and social participation, guaranteeing, in accordance with article 196, health and well-being for all, with a focus on equity.