EFEITOS PARADOXAIS DO DISTANCIAMENTO SOCIAL DA COVID-19 EM PESSOAS IDOSAS COM A DOENÇA DE ALZHEIMER E SEUS CUIDADORES: UMA ANÁLISE BIOÉTICA

Contextualization: In pandemics, measures are necessary to minimize damage and preserve lives, considering the infrastructure of health services. In these periods marked by a health crisis, social distancing is an important tool for mitigating contagion and containing the epidemic curve. However, it can disproportionately impact certain population groups. Objective: Considering the context outlined above, this investigation carried out a bioethical analysis regarding the paradox of social distancing, recommended during the COVID-19 pandemic, for elderly people with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. Methodology: This is a theoretical-reflexive study built in the field of bioethics and based on the interface between the theoretical frameworks of Protection Bioethics (BP) and the Functioning Perspective (PdF). Results: The theoretical articulation possible to understand that both from the point of view of the principle of protection and from a more inclusive justice perspective, this health measure can be conceived as paradoxical. This theoretical articulation also resulted in the description of the basic functioning of people with ADDR and their caregivers, as well as in proposing recommendations to protect this group in pandemics. Conclusion: The specific demands of this group impose an ethical commitment to a more balanced approach, which prevents disproportionate damage, protects and guarantees the integrity of these people in pandemic contexts.