Uma análise do impacto da educação alimentar e nutricional no autocuidado da pessoa idosa da Universidade da Maturidade de Porto Nacional - Tocantins

Abstract

Population aging in Brazil presents challenges and opportunities for public health. The increase in the elderly population requires effective self-care strategies, especially concerning nutrition and health. This study analyzed the impact of nutritional and dietary education on the self-care of the elderly at the Universidade da Maturidade in Porto Nacional – TO. The research aims to identify self-care strategies focused on nutritional engagement to improve the quality of life and health of the elderly. The study was cross- sectional and used a qualitative and quantitative approach. Between 30 and 36 students from the Universidade da Maturidade (UMA/UFT) in Porto Nacional – TO participated, recruited by convenience. Four educational interventions were conducted, addressing topics such as Nutritional and Dietary Education (EAN), healthy eating, rational use of medication, and nutritional self-care. Data were collected through questionnaires applied before and after the face-to-face meetings, covering socioeconomic aspects, eating habits, medication use, and physical exercise practices. Data analysis revealed that 64% of participants always included red or processed meat in their diets, and 70% regularly consumed chicken or fish. Regarding vegetable consumption, 44% consumed them 3 to 4 times a week, while 23% consumed them more than 5 times a week. Regarding the use of vitamin supplements, only 33% of participants adopted this practice. Most elderly participants (50%) exercised regularly. The educational interventions showed that raising awareness about the importance of healthy eating and the interaction between food and medication can promote positive changes in eating habits and health management. The study highlighted the importance of nutritional health education for the self-care of the elderly. The educational interventions contributed to a better understanding of the relationship between diet and health, encouraging healthier and more conscious eating practices. Nutritional education proved to be an effective tool for promoting self-care and improving the quality of life of the elderly. The research suggests that public policies should support health education programs to meet the needs of Brazil's growing elderly population