Reflexologia Podal: percepções da pessoa idosa com Parkinson frente a um cuidado integrativista

Abstract

Parkinson’s disease is currently the second most prevalent neurodegenerative disease among older adults, second only to Alzheimer’s. It has a universal distribution and affects between 1% and 3% of the older population, with family members - primarily women - serving as the main caregivers. Current treatment includes medication, surgery, and multidisciplinary care, highlighting the importance of expanding care approaches to ensure comprehensive support that enhances the well-being of individuals with Parkinson’s in managing their primary symptoms. Integrative Practices, such as foot reflexology, serve as a complementary, holistic, and expanded care option aimed at assisting in the management of clinical manifestations of the disease. Objectives: to understand the perceptions of older adults with Parkinson’s who use foot reflexology as an integrative and complementary health practice regarding their overall condition and to develop resources for implementing a Clinical Protocol for Foot Reflexology as a care strategy for individuals with the disease. Method: qualitative study using the convergent care research methodology. It was conducted in the municipality of Camaçari from June to October 2024, involving 13 older adults with Parkinson. Data collection included interviews, foot reflexology sessions, application of the Hoehn and Yahr Scale, and discussion groups. Results: the analysis of the collected material found four empirical categories: (1) Changes in physical and emotional conditions and the use of resources to cope with the disease; (2) Performing Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) with fluctuating levels of independence and dependence; (3) Preservation and alteration of family and friendship relationships due to illness; and (4) Possibilities for improving disease management depending on technological advancements, organization of public services, and maintenance of independence and autonomy. According to the scale, 54% of participants were at Stage 2.5, followed by Stages 2 and 3, with 15% each. A technical report was produced based on discussion group findings. Considerations: the study revealed that older adults with Parkinson’s experienced positive effects from Foot Reflexology, including a reduction in disease symptoms, increased wellbeing, and improved quality of life. Additionally, findings highlight the need for greater investment in public health policies to ensure access to Complementary and Integrative Health Practices, particularly Foot Reflexology, for individuals with Parkinson’s. Outcomes: Based on the research findings, two technical reports, an informational pamphlet, an academic article, an ID card for older adults with Parkinson’s, and a training program for healthcare professionals were developed. These resources provide the foundation for the creation of a Municipal Clinical Protocol on Foot Reflexology for the care of older adults with Parkinson’s disease.