Constitution of autonomy discourse of older person in the daily life of a Long-Term Care Facility for the older person

Objective  to analyze the constitution of autonomy discourse of the older person in a Long-Term Institution, from the perspective of professionals and institutionalized older person women.

Method  qualitative research, developed from the perspective of the post-structuralist framework, fulfilled in a philanthropic institution in the city of Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Data were collected, from January to March 2018, through semi-structured interviews with 13 professionals and seven older person women, document analysis and observation and were submitted to discourse analysis.

Results  the effects of institutionalization on the constitution of the older person’s autonomy can be observed in the speeches of the older person and professionals. The Institution is a place of discipline, with well-established routines, with little space for older person women to make decisions. Their autonomy is forgotten, because routines, in a way, cover up their desires, their choices and their own freedom.

Conclusion  for a proper functioning of the structure, limits and rules are necessary. However, it is important to consider that the standards are not used solely as an instrument for controlling and restricting the older person women’s decision-making exercise. The epidemiological transition requires from institutions changes in their daily practices, arising from specific public policies for institutions, with a clear definition of their role and guidelines for a qualified practice.

Keywords
Elderly; Home for the Aged; Personal autonomy; Institutionalization; Aging