OBJECTIVE: To characterize the sociodemographic and clinical profile of elders who receive care in a family health unit. METHODS: A cross-sectional, exploratory study was conducted in Fortaleza, CE. The sample consisted of 214 elders. The data were collected from September through December 2006 using a specific demographic questionnaire during the interviews RESULTS: The findings were similar to those reported by other studies; the majority of elders were female and were living alone or in families with three generations. Ostheoarthrosis was the most common self-reported disease. In addition, according to the Body Mass Index (BMI), most elders were obese. CONCLUSION: This study provides indicators that can be used for planning of actions to prevent diseases and to promote elders' health.
Health of the elderly/epidemiology; Family health; Aging
