Percepção dos idosos institucionalizados acerca da qualidade de vida

Objective: This research aimed to evaluate aspects related to the quality of life of institutionalized elderly in the city of Crato in the state of Ceara. Methods: This study was exploratory, descriptive and qualitative approach. The socio-demographic and cultural profile was traced; We identified the importance of the professionals of the Long Stay Institutions for the Elderly (LSIE) and the perception about the quality of life in an institution. Data were collected through a semi-structured interview, which addressed the aging associated with quality of life in the institution. Results: The sample for the study consisted of 13 elderly, all female and aged between 70 and 80 years. They were organized into four categories: 1) morphofunctional changes; 2) participation in leisure events; 3) professional assistance; and 4) quality of life in LSIE. The aging process influences the development of changes that can have an important impact on the quality of life of the elderly. Conclusion: It was understood that, even in the face of certain limitations caused by the increase of years, the respondents perceive the quality of life in LSIE in a positive way in all aspects, which began with the welcome and continues in the daily life of the institution.