Publicación:

Una mirada a la salud mental positiva en adultos mayores grupos focales

Resumen

The objective of this research was to analyze the representations that a group of older adults have about their mental health and quality of life, which were interviewed through the methodology of discussion groups. The results obtained were organized in the categories established from the line: Mental Health Concept, Intrapersonal Dimension, Relational Dimension, Projective Dimension and Quality of Life Dimension. For the analysis and interpretation of the information, coding processes and conceptual categories were applied. Based on the results, it is concluded that positive mental health is represented by the elderly as a natural process closer to health than to illness, characterized by well-being, which is mainly constituted by the positive attitude towards the lifetime; the ability to maintain a physical activity, have meaningful relationships with their family, adequate conditions of quality of life, that is, have peace and tranquility, be cared for and protected by the family, in conditions of dignity, love and respect and be able to participate as a social being, with freedom of expression, decision, communication and information. They indicate that there is a significant relationship between mental health and physical health, taking it as bidirectional, given that, the deterioration of one affects the other, and therefore, they are concerned about maintaining good health in both spheres. They consider that positive emotions allow them to control their impulses, contrast and better recognize their feelings and learn to make more appropriate decisions.