Self-perceived health among older adults at risk of clinical-functional vulnerability in an Open University

Abstract Objective To identify and understand the self-perceived health of older adults at risk of clinical-functional vulnerability who participate in an Open University within a public higher education institution in Northeastern Brazil. Method This analytical, qualitative study was based on secondary data from the project titled “Assessment of Frailty in Older Adults Participating in the Open University for Maturity.” Inclusion criteria were being an older adult, participating in the university, presenting no cognitive impairment, and presenting vulnerability risk according to the Clinical-Functional Vulnerability Index (CFVI-20). Thus, of the 102 participants, 34 were included and 68 were excluded from the sample. Data were analyzed using thematic categorical analysis, and categories were established inductively. Results Three thematic categories were identified: Health as the absence of disease; Health as a state of biopsychosocial and spiritual well-being; and Health as the ability to overcome clinical-functional vulnerabilities and how the Open University contributes to this process. Conclusion Continuous clinical-functional assessment of older adults is essential for the early detection of vulnerabilities and the implementation of educational interventions. In Open University programs, the social interaction promoted by institutional initiatives fosters discussion on quality of life and contributes to self-awareness in health promotion and maintenance during aging.