Coupling between long-term institutions for elderly and universities

Abstract

Qualitative approaching study aimed at identifying communication that occurs in the structural coupling between long-term homes for elderly and universities. It was studied public and private non-profitable institutions located in the Brazilian urban context, which cares residents whose are unable to care by themselves or belong from low-income families. Data collection and its analysis were based on the Luhmannian analytical-functional method, through interviews with the elderly, institution’s leaders and media communication document consultation performed by the these institutions. It was observed that the presence of the University in the Institution brings the possibility to expand its professional staff, enhancement of skills and qualification to the workers. Besides the beneficial aspect to the long-term institution, the University benefits goes ahead to the professional-technical teaching. It also helps to change attitudes and reframe younger generations’ concepts toward the aging.

Descriptors: Aged; Homes for the Aged; Higher Education Institutions; Geriatric Nursing.