QUALITY OF LIFE IN ELDERLY CARDIAC PRE AND POST CARDIAC SURGERY

Abstract

Introduction: Aging is a biological process intrinsic, progressive, downward and universal, in which one can recognize physical and biological marks inseparables, which are not produced by disease. Objectives: This study aims to analyze the quality of life and functional capacity of elderly cardiac patients before and after cardiac surgery. Methods: This was a pilot study carried out from February 2014 to March 2015. The sample was a non-probabilistic sample composed of 9 patients aged 60 to 85 years who were evaluated through the WHOQOL-bref and the Barthel Index, by direct contact before surgery, and six months after this procedure through telephone inquiry. Results: The comparison of average quality of life before and after surgery showed a significant improvement in the physical, social and overall quality of life. As for functional capacity, there was no significant difference between preoperative and six months, remaining independent patients or with mild dependence. Conclusion: Therefore, there was a positive impact on quality of life before and after cardiac surgery in the physical, social and general quality of life domains in the study participants.