Abstract

SANTOS JUNIOR, Hudson Pires de Oliveira  and  SILVEIRA, Maria de Fátima de Araújo. Health-care practices performed at assisted living facilities: pursuing the paths back to society. Rev. esc. enferm. USP [online]. 2009, vol.43, n.4, pp. 788-795. ISSN 0080-6234.  http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/S0080-62342009000400008.

The objective of this exploratory study was to understand the perspective of professionals working at assisted living facilities about the healthcare practices performed in the mental health service. Data collection was performed using an observation form, field journal, and a semi-structured interview script, which was conducted with 10 professionals working at the facilities. It was found that the care provided at the facility was humanized and valued the uniqueness of the individuals living there, as well as their values and beliefs, seeking to (re)establish the individuals' social relationships and encourage them towards self-care. It is observed that this form of care has been achieving (re)socialization and valuing the lives of those experiencing psychic distress.

Keywords : Mental Health; Mental health services; Assisted living facilities.