A mulher idosa no contexto da institucionalização: autoimagem, autoestima, beleza e cuidado na velhice

Abstract

Aging and body image together with beauty concepts are issues addressed in current investigations. The contemporary society dictates values for youth, principles in relation to the body, that when ageing for some women can cause suffering and decrease of self-esteem. The general objective of this study was to investigate the experiences of women institutionalized in relation to the care of personal appearance, self-image and self-esteem, and, still know the meaning of beauty in the perception of the institutionalized elderly woman. This is a descriptive exploratory study of qualitative approach. The inclusion criteria imposed were elderly aged 60 years or older, resident in a long-term institution, who attended the criterion of presenting a condition of understanding verbal communication and having attended the project "Beauty Shop". As exclusion criteria were established, elderly with severe dementias, sensory deficits that prevented speech and communication. The data was collected through a halfstructured interview, with a thematic roadmap. The place of residence in old age provides souvenirs of stories, memories and situations that have been part of the life of each elderly woman. The experience in a long-standing institution, in turn, needs adaptation due to the differences in social relations previously established in its life history. The results of the research point out that institutionalized elders have come across low self-esteem, once recognized inserted in an environment no longer propitious to care. The perceptions of themselves are of loss of youth associated with loss of beauty, characteristics considered unique and typical of young people, remembered to the times of the past. It is observed the need for health professionals in aesthetics to redeem self-esteem and to provide these women with better care conditions in order to develop personal identity and the process of aging.