NURSING CARE FOR THE ELDERLY AND ITS CHALLENGES IN PRIMARY HEALTH CARE

Abstract

Population aging is a demographic reality both in Brazil and globally. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), by 2050, the world will have two billion elderly people. In the Americas, the population over 60 is expected to triple in the next 30 years. Aging is associated with increased risks, such as falls and chronic diseases. In Brazil, the National Elderly Policy and the National Health Policy for the Elderly were created to promote autonomy, protection, and comprehensive care for this population. Nursing professionals play a central role in elderly care, especially in Primary Health Care (PHC), where the first health contact occurs. This study aimed to analyze nursing care provided to elderly individuals within PHC, identifying the main challenges and proposing strategies for a more effective and humanized practice. An integrative literature review was conducted following six steps: defining the research question, establishing inclusion/exclusion criteria, selecting databases (SciELO, PubMed, WHO), extracting and evaluating data, and presenting results. The PICO strategy guided the question: "What challenges does nursing face in caring for the elderly in PHC?" Articles published between 2020 and 2025 in Portuguese were included. Nine key studies were analyzed. The main challenges identified include insufficient resources, professional overload, inadequate training in gerontology, and difficulty integrating interdisciplinary teams. Strategies such as strengthening active listening, promoting empathy, and training in mental health and Alzheimer’s care were emphasized. The role of nursing in humanized and comprehensive care, including family and caregiver involvement, was also highlighted. Nursing care for the elderly in PHC must be based on technical-scientific knowledge, empathy, and a holistic view of aging. Overcoming structural and organizational barriers is essential to promote autonomy, active aging, and improved quality of life for elderly individuals, reaffirming PHC as the cornerstone of elderly health care.