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Vulnerability of the elderly: a conceptual analysis.
Keylla Talitha Fernandes Barbosa1, Fabiana Maria Rodrigues Lopes de Oliveira1, Maria das Graças Melo Fernandes1
1Universidade Federal da Paraíba. João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil.
Revista Brasileira De Enfermagem
|December 12, 2019
Summary
This study analyzed the concept of vulnerability in the elderly, identifying individual, social, and programmatic factors. Further research is needed to fully understand this complex issue in aging populations.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Public Health
- Sociology
Background:
- Aging populations present unique health challenges.
- Understanding vulnerability in the elderly is crucial for targeted interventions.
- Existing literature requires a consolidated conceptual framework.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a comprehensive concept analysis of vulnerability in the elderly.
- To identify antecedents, attributes, and consequences of elderly vulnerability.
- To elucidate the multidimensional nature of vulnerability in aging.
Main Methods:
- Concept analysis following Walker and Avant's framework.
- Integrative literature review methodology.
- Systematic search of scientific data portals.
Main Results:
- Identified antecedents and attributes encompassing individual, social, and programmatic characteristics.
- Analyzed factors contributing to the vulnerability process in older adults.
- Highlighted the multidimensionality and specificities of elderly vulnerability.
Conclusions:
- The concept of elderly vulnerability is multidimensional.
- Specific peculiarities of vulnerability during the aging process were identified.
- Further research is recommended to deepen the understanding of this construct.
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