Banca de QUALIFICAÇÃO: NATHÁLIA MARIA MORAIS BELÉM

Research – continuing education intervention on aging and functionality of the elderly with the ACS of Mauriti (CE)

Population aging; Primary Health Care; Community Health Workers; Functional assessment; Permanent Health Education.

Population aging in Brazil presents major challenges to Primary Health Care (PHC), especially in small municipalities such as Mauriti, in the state of Ceará. The early identification of clinical and functional vulnerability among older adults is essential to improve longitudinal care. In this context, the Clinical-Functional Vulnerability Index (IVCF-20) stands out as a strategic tool. However, its systematic use remains limited, particularly due to the lack of training for Community Health Workers (CHWs). This study aimed to assess the knowledge of CHWs in Mauriti regarding aging and the functionality of older adults, through a workshop-based in-service education course. This is a mixed-methods research with a quasi-experimental and longitudinal design. Structured questionnaires with a Likert scale were applied before and after the intervention, and discourse analysis was conducted in conversation circles. The developed Technical-Technological Product (TTP) consisted of an 8-hour theoretical-practical course using active methodologies, simulations, and an instructional video. The workshop is expected to qualify the work of CHWs, supporting functional screening of older adults in the territory, care planning, and strengthening of teamwork. Final considerations emphasize the importance of Permanent Health Education as a strategy for transforming healthcare practices and recommend the broader implementation of the IVCF-20 with institutional support. This Master’s Degree Final Project is a product of the Graduate Program stricto sensu Professional Master’s in Family Health (PROFSAÚDE).