Comparison of sociodemographic profile and health conditions of elderly residents in predominantly rural and urban areas of the Greater Florianópolis, southern Brazil

Abstract Background Social problems, impaired functional capacity and isolation are features affected by local conditions of elderly living. This article aims to verify the sociodemographic and health differences in the elderly living in predominantly rural and urban areas of Florianópolis (SC). Methods Population-based studies were analyzed: Saúde-AC in Antônio Carlos (477 subjects); and EpiFloripa Idoso in Florianópolis (1705 subjects). The variables were compared by confidence interval. Results The city of Antônio Carlos showed higher prevalence and the largest differences for people with lower educational level (97%), married, widowers, currently working, health perception equals/worst than those with the same age and substantially increased cardiovascular risk (64%); lower prevalence smokers, disability in 1 to 3 activities (6%) and cognitive impairment (10%). Florianópolis had a higher prevalence of high income and health insurance (66%). Conclusion These data allowed the identification of different health demands and their socioeconomic conditions. The information collaborates to implement specific actions for the elderly considering the living socioeconomic characteristics.