Active aging and maintenance of intrinsic capacity in older adults: experience report in university extension

Abstract

Objective: To describe the actions and experiences of the Extension Project "Active Aging and Intrinsic Capacity of Older Adults," developed at the Federal University of Pernambuco (UFPE), aiming to foster healthy aging and functional autonomy through academic engagement. Experience report: The project was conducted from August 2024 through August 2025, engaging medical students in three key areas: outpatient geriatric care, thematic group discussions, and developmet of accessible digital educational resources. Students employed standardized clinical instruments to evaluate functionality, cognition, and mood, while also sharing health education through digital platforms. This model not only positively impacted the community but also advanced the students clinical reasoning. Consequently, the project fostered a deeper integration between the university and the community. Final considerations: It is concluded that the project significantly contributed to recognizing older adults as active agents in their care, promoting a multidimensional and humanized approach. This initiative aligns with the guidelines of the Decade of Healthy Ageing.