Abstract

VARGAS SANTILLAN, Ma de Lourdes et al. Self-care behaviors in older adults: a qualitative study in a Mexican population. Rev. Enf. Ref. [online]. 2018, vol.serIV, n.16, pp.117-126. ISSN 0874-0283.  https://doi.org/10.12707/RIV17065.

Background: Older adults perform self-care activities based on common knowledge, which should be valued by the nursing team. Objectives: To describe and analyze the self-care behaviors of older adults in a Mexican population. Methodology: Qualitative ethnographic study, using Leininger's qualitative research method. Results: Seventeen older adults were interviewed. The analysis resulted in 4 explanatory patterns: 1) I keep my peace of mind through what I think, feel, and believe; 2) I watch my diet and pay attention not only to what I eat but also how I eat it; 3) Staying busy is what keeps me going; 4) and Seeking help and helping myself. The following risk behaviors were identified: Postponing medical care; Self-medication; and Food-related beliefs. Conclusion: Identifying older adults' reported behaviors would contribute to the planning of culturally-sensitive nursing interventions.

Keywords : health knowledge, attitudes, practice; aged; nursing care; culture.

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