The individual's aging process is being the target of attention in Brazil, what requires from the public health services a specific preparation to face this reality. The study aimed at to identify the difficulties lived by the families of elderly with chronic conditions looking for assistance in the Basic Health Units. As a methodological referential the Data Based Theory was used, and the Symbolic Interactionism was used as a theoretical referential. Eight families of seniors suffering from chronic disease took part in the research. The families mention problems of non-continuity of the programs accomplished by the BHU when the political administration is changed, as well as the frequent changes of the health team members, leading to the discontinuity of the treatment and the breaking of bonds between population and professionals of health.
Elderly; Chronic disease; Basic Health Unit