Abstract

In Brazil, there have been improvements in life expectancy, however, there are challenges to ensure the quality of life of the elderly population. The development of chronic diseases throughout life is an aggravating factor that hinders therapeutic management, due to non-adherence to prescribed medication. Cases of frequent self-medication in the lives of Brazilians are also associated. Pharmaceutical care is a service that seeks to raise awareness and work on the difficulties of each patient. This study reports on the benefits of pharmaceutical care on the health of the elderly within the scope of primary health care. It is a literature review, where articles from 2016 to 2023 were selected from the Scielo and Caps Journals databases. The aging of the population presents challenges such as motor and cognitive complications, and a higher incidence of chronic diseases. Pharmaceutical care has been crucial in assisting patients in their treatment, promoting adherence to treatment, reducing possible adverse effects of pharmacological therapy, and contributing to the quality of life of Brazilians. Despite pharmaceutical care being integrated into primary health care in Brazil, greater investments are still needed to ensure that all Brazilians receive this assistance. Studies confirm the benefits of pharmaceutical services in the health of the elderly, contributing to healthy and safe aging.

Keywords

• Pharmaceutical care
• Primary care
• Elderly health

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