Capacidad de agencia de autocuidado en personas adultas mayores con Hipertensión Arterial y su relación con la depresión

Abstract

Abstract: The present study examined the capacity for self-care agency in older adults diagnosed with arterial hypertension, as well as its relationship with the presence of depressive symptoms, in urban-marginal areas of the city of Loja. The study adopted a quantitative approach of correlational type, selecting a sample of 60 older adults through previously established inclusion criteria. For the analysis of the results, the self-care scale (ASA) and the Beck-Ll Depression Inventory, both instruments recognized and validated for the established population, were used. The findings revealed that 80% (n=48) of the participants showed a high capacity for self-care, while 75% (n=45) showed a low level of depression. Although no statistically significant relationship was identified between these two variables, a slight relationship between sex and family composition was noted. This result encourages us to consider the role that sociodemographic factors play in the promotion of self-care and the management of emotional well-being Therefore, this work contributes to strengthening community nursing practice, which shows the need for specific interventions in mental health and self-care for vulnerable older adults.