Family vulnerabilities and health risks of the elderly in the context of COVID-19

Abstract

During the pandemic, isolation, social distancing and restrictive measures reflected in people's routine, causing behavioral, physical, psychological, family and social changes. A study was carried out with the objective of identifying family vulnerabilities and risks to the health of elderly people, in the context of Covid-19. A cross-sectional research, of a quantitative and descriptive nature, was carried out in a municipality belonging to the Health Region of the Far West of Santa Catarina. As an instrument, the Coelho and Savassi Family Risk Scale was applied and data collection took place, with the help of Community Health Agents, after training, from March to May 2021. The results showed the predominance of minimal risk in the general classification of the municipality. It was evident that the use of the scale made it possible to establish profiles and strategies that prioritize the actions of the teams that work in Primary Health Care, with emphasis on home visits and the direction of assistance according to the degree of existing family vulnerability.