Resumen

DIAZ, Basilia Estela; MARTINEZ LOZANO, Ana Josefa  y  NUNEZ RODRIGUEZ, Vidalina. Características biopsicosociales en una población anciana. Rev Cubana Enfermer [online]. 2003, vol.19, n.3. ISSN 0864-0319.

A cross-sectional descriptive study of the biopsychological characteristics of the aged population, which is taken care of by the teaching community polyclinics Area VI in Cienfuegos province, was performed from January to March, 2000. The functional, physical, psychical and social conditions of this population as well as morbidity and mortality rates and gerontological care at the community were examined to improve the quality of life of and the care given to the elderly. Data were collected from forms and interview models administered to family physicians and nurses, which included questions about the elderly´s activities in the community and the support provided to them; statistical information and social diagnosis data were used. Among the main findings of the study, we may underline that a high percentage of the studied population showed neither cognitive nor affectionate disturbances; most of them did not face economic problems and were supported by their families. Hypertension and diabetes were predominant and the main causes of death were cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. The aged population participates actively in the grandparents´clubs and in community-wide activities.

Palabras clave : AGED [psychology]; PRIMARY HEALTH CARE; NURSING CARE; FAMILY; GERIATRIC NURSING; INTERPERSONAL RELATIONS; DEMOGRAPHIC AGING; COMMUNITY MEDICINE.