Desafios enfrentados pela população idosa no acesso aos serviços de fisioterapia
Desafios enfrentados pela população idosa no acesso aos serviços de fisioterapia
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.8089282604053
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Palavras-chave: idosos, serviços de fisioterapia, acessibilidade aos serviços de saúde, telerreabilitação.
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Keywords: older adults, physical therapy services, access to health care, telerehabilitation
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Abstract: The aging of the population has accelerated in recent decades, bringing to light a number of challenges for healthcare systems. In this context, physical therapy plays a fundamental role in the prevention and rehabilitation of functional limitations in older adults. However, many still face difficulties in accessing these services. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the main barriers to accessing physical therapy through an integrative literature review. The research was conducted in scientific databases such as PubMed, SciELO, LILACS, PEDro, and Google Scholar, considering articles published between 2020 and 2026 that directly addressed the topic. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 21 studies were selected for analysis. The results showed that the main barriers to access include mobility and transportation difficulties, the distance between homes and treatment sites, a shortage of professionals and specialized services, as well as socioeconomic inequalities and structural limitations of health systems. Clinical, social, and psychological factors that affected adherence to rehabilitation programs were also identified, such as pain, fear of movement, and lack of family support. Furthermore, recent studies indicate that digital technologies and telerehabilitation can help expand access to physical therapy services. However, the digital divide, low levels of technological literacy, and difficulties in using these tools still constitute significant barriers for many older adults. It is concluded that the challenges of accessing physical therapy among older adults are diverse and require an integrated approach. This includes the implementation of public policies, the expansion of service provision, the reduction of regional inequalities, and the promotion of digital inclusion. Thus, ensuring access to physical therapy care is essential for fostering active, healthy aging and a better quality of life.
- rosyellen dos anjos morais
- thais frazão cutrim
- luciana cavalcante costa