Promoção do bem-estar em idosos institucionalizados: os efeitos combinados da intervenção psicológica e da atividade física

Population aging in Portugal has been increasing significantly, bringing challenges in terms of physical, mental, and social health, especially among institutionalized older adults. In this context, the present study aimed to develop and evaluate the effects of a psychosocial intervention program focused on mental health and physical activity in a group of institutionalized older women. The intervention sought to promote emotional well-being, perceived functionality, subjective happiness, and life satisfaction through a combination of emotional and cognitive stimulation sessions and physical activity. A mixed-methods approach was adopted. The quantitative component involved the use of validated scales to assess cognition, perceived physical functionality, psychological well-being, subjective happiness, and symptoms of depression and anxiety. The qualitative component consisted of a focus group interview. Fourteen institutionalized older women participated in the study, divided into an intervention group (n = 7) and a control group (n = 7). Quantitative results did not reveal statistically significant differences between the groups. However, favorable trends were observed in the intervention group, particularly in the perception of physical functionality and the stabilization of depressive and anxious symptoms. The qualitative analysis revealed positive emotional and relational effects: participants expressed satisfaction with the sessions, reported greater self-awareness, emotional sharing, and strengthened interpersonal bonds, highlighting the subjective and therapeutic impact of the intervention. In conclusion, the combination of physical activity with emotional and cognitive stimulation represents a promising approach to promoting overall well-being in institutionalized older women.