Utilização do índice de vulnerabilidade clínico funcional na classificação de idosos frágeis e com risco de fragilização

Abstract

The aging process, although inevitable, must be experienced spontaneously and with the protection of the functional capacity of the elderly person. In this process, a multidimensional assessment carried out by health professionals in order to involve all the nuances of the aging process is indispensable. The objective of this research was to investigate the functional classification and frailty of elderly users of Basic Family Health Units according to the dimensions of the IVCF-20. This is a cross-sectional study carried out in the municipality of Barra do Garça, Mato Grosso, based on home visits and measurement of functional capacity through the application of the Functional Clinical Vulnerability Index (IVCF-20). The sample consisted of 177 elderly people living in the urban area of the city. Descriptive analysis was used to examine the results. Among those evaluated, 29.4% were classified as robust, 30.5% as frail and 40.1% at risk of frailty. The most prevalent age was 60 to 74 years (69.5%), with no impairment in the performance of basic activities of daily living in 92.1% of the elderly, 53.7% reported the presence of feelings such as sadness, discouragement or hopelessness and 51.4% had gait alterations. The use of the IVCF 20 in the classification of frail older adults was resolute and fulfilled its final objective, although it may present limitations due to the subjective nature of the elderly's responses. An integrated approach between different sectors of society is recommended to address the challenges related to the vulnerability of older persons, including appropriate public policies and awareness of the rights of older people.