Abstract
The increase of longevity in our country rises many questions for public policies, such as the increasing demand for Long Term Care. Historically these institutions were created to take care of poor people, those with health problems and without social support. Nowadays the facts that determine the institutionalization are better known through studies on the profile, characteristics and needs of institutions that present problems regarding their management, and usually are far from the desirable quality standard defined by the legislation that controls the elderly's rights in Brazil. Based on this context, this article presents an overview of some actions developed in Rio de Janeiro municipality, pointing out the demands and difficulties that encourage searching for LTC's, alternatives offered to the aged and main challenges. In conclusion, it is urgent to broaden this discussion so as to stimulate the implementation and proposition of new ideas and alternative models for institutionalization.
Key words:
longevity; aged rights; health public policy; homes for the aged; health plan implementation; quality indicators, health care; Rio de Janeiro city