Abstract
Objective:
To describe the living conditions and health of the elderly Kaingang in Faxinal indigenous territory in the state of Paraná.
Methods:
Qualitative study, supported by the ethnographic method was conducted with 28 elderly Kaingang. Data were collected between November 2010 and February 2013, through participant observation, analyzed by means of ethnography.
Results:
The elderly have specific socio-cultural organization, live in houses built by the government, have electricity and running water. They are physically active, independent, have diet rich in carbohydrates and saturated fats. Often, older people make attempts to meet their health problems within the family before seeking the health service.
Conclusion:
It is necessary to adopt proposals aimed at improving the living conditions and health of the elderly, considering the cultural specificities of indigenous peoples, may control interventions are more effective, particularly in relation to disease.
Keywords:
Health of Indigenous Peoples; Aged; Indigenous Population; Culture