ABSTRACT
Objectives
to verify access and use of the health services by community older adults and the factors associated to the use of the health services.
Methods:
a cross-sectional study, conducted with 1,611 older adults living in the health macro-region of Minas Gerais. Data was collected from March 2017 to June 2018 by means of validated instruments. Descriptive analyses and multiple logistic regression were performed (p<0.05).
Results:
83.8% sought the same service or health professional; in the last two weeks prior to the interview (20%); had a medical consultation in the last 12 months (87.3%); used medications (87.8%); went to the dentist for the last time three years ago or more (57.7%). The use of the health services was associated with the pre-frail/frail condition (p=0.026) and with the negative self-perception of health (p=0.037).
Conclusion:
the data denote the need for action in health to meet the demands of the frail older adult with a negative self-perception of health.
DESCRIPTORS:
Older Adult; Health Systems; Unified Health System; Access to the Health Services; Geriatric Nursing