Access to and use of the health services among community older adults

Abstract

Objectives: to verify access and use of the health services by community older adults and the factors associated to the use of the health services. Methods: a cross-sectional study, conducted with 1,611 older adults living in the health macroregion of Minas Gerais. Data was collected from March 2017 to June 2018 by means of validated instruments. Descriptive analyses and multiple logistic regression were performed (p<0.05). Results: 83.8% sought the same service or health professional; in the last two weeks prior to the interview (20%); had a medical consultation in the last 12 months (87.3%); used medications (87.8%); went to the dentist for the last time three years ago or more (57.7%). The use of the health services was associated with the pre-frail/frail condition (p=0.026) and with the negative self-perception of health (p=0.037). Conclusion: the data denote the need for action in health to meet the demands of the frail older adult with a negative self-perception of health.