Estrategia de intervención para la estimulación de la capacidad intrínseca en adultos mayores de la Amazonía ecuatoriana, 2025 - 2026

Abstract

Abstract: This research addressed the stimulation of intrinsic capacity in older adults in the Ecuadorian Amazon. The general objective was to implement an intervention strategy for the stimulation of intrinsic capacity in older adults in the Ecuadorian Amazon during 2025-2026. The study was conducted in Sector 2 of the Zamora Health Center, Zamora canton, Zamora Chinchipe province, with a sample of 82 older adults aged 60 and over. A quasi-experimental pretest-posttest design was used. Validated instruments were applied such as the ICOPE screening, MoCA, SPPB, MNA, FRAIL scale, PHQ-9, Barthel Index and Lawton and Brody Scale. The strategy included Vivifrail multicomponent exercise, cognitive stimulation, nutritional education and referral to specialties. The results showed significant improvements in global intrinsic capacity (r=0.39; p<0.001), locomotor domain (SPPB +1 point; r=0.55), cognitive domain (MoCA: 17.5 to 20.5; r=0.79), vitality (MNA: 26 to 27) and far vision (OR=21; p=0.002). It is concluded that the personalized ICOPE strategy, implemented from the first level of care with local resources, is feasible and effective for improving the intrinsic capacity of older adults.