Análise dos efeitos do comportamento sedentário sobre a qualidade de vida de idosos institucionalizados

Abstract

Introduction: With the increase of life expectancy of world population the, there is a growing concern about the health and quality of life of the geriatric population. In addition to this aspect, elderly are more vulnerable to chronic diseases and are also more susceptible to decreased functional capacity and the risks caused by a sedentary lifestyle. On the other hand, sedentary behavior in anyage group has been seen as a public health problem, making the population vulnerable to the development of various pathologies and increasing the risk of mortality. Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate sedentary behaviorand its effects on the quality of life of elderly people living in long-term care facilities.Methods: After submission and approval by the Research Ethics Committee, elderly individuals aged between 65 and 85 years, who were able to move around on their own or at least could walk without the help of others, were selected. To perform the data collect, a group of 20 elderly people was divided into two groups:(n=07) female and (n=13) male. Blood collect was performed, blood pressure, weight and height were measured to analyze cardiovascular parameters and lipid profile. To analyze Quality of Life, the Quality of Life Questionnaire (SF-36) was applied and to analyze functional physical fitness, the Rikli & Jones test battery wasused. Results: As a result of the present study, changes in metabolic and cardiovascular parameters were observed in both groups, making these individuals vulnerable to chronic and cardiovascular diseases. taking for granted the lipid profile, the results suggest that the entire population that participated in the research may present an increased cardiovascular risk. A reduction in the perception of health and quality of life was also observed, in addition to limited functional capacity. Conclusion: With the present study it was possible to realize that sedentary behavior may be associated with a worsening in quality of life and deleterious changes in metabolism and functional aspects. Thus, we can suggest the practice of exercises or physical activity under the supervision of a Physical Education professional as a strategy to reduce the possible effects of a sedentary lifestyle, both related to cardiovascular risks, and to improve the functional capacity and quality oflife of elderly people living in long-term care facilities.