CHALLENGES IN CARE FOR ELDERLY INDIVIDUALS WITH AMYOTROPHIC LATERAL SCLEROSIS: EXPERIENCE REPORT

Abstract

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disorder that triggers increased muscle tone and progressive weakness of the limbs. Therefore, the present work aimed to highlight the main aspects that permeate care for this public, seeking to provide the best quality of life. Furthermore, this is a descriptive study with a qualitative approach, of the experience report type, based on the academic experiences of a group of medical students in a health action carried out in the micro area of ​​a Family Health Strategy (ESF), in Redenção-PA, based on the creation of proposals to face the challenges that exist in caring for an elderly person with ALS. In view of this, an action was developed based on promoting full awareness among those responsible for care, aiming to establish an understanding of the psychological limitations of the patient and spouse, as well as formalize awareness of the importance of the division of tasks and implementation of the guarantee of support emotional to promote broad care. Thus, the relevance of such a project to seek to guarantee holistic care, aiming to improve the well-being and quality of life of patients, was clear.