Journal Paper

Self-care, a central concept in nursing, promotes health, prevents illness, and empowers individuals to take a more proactive role in managing their health, thereby reducing the demand for secondary care. Among adults aged 45–64, this role is particularly significant due to the challenges they face, including the prevalence of chronic diseases, functional limitations, and low levels of satisfaction with health services. In Portugal, these issues are exacerbated by a negative perception of health and a lack of strategies to support self-care. This study addresses these gaps by proposing an integrated model that combines multidisciplinary and person-centered dimensions to promote autonomy and well-being. The project aligns with national and international programs, such as the Action Plan for Active and Healthy Aging and the 2030 Agenda, contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically Health and Well-being (SDG 3) and Reducing Inequalities (SDG 10). Self-care is framed as a strategic investment, with an impact on reducing healthcare costs, improving functionality, and strengthening the resilience of healthcare systems. This model integrates variables such as functionality, quality of life, and self-care practices, while simultaneously assessing the impact of nursing interventions on middle-aged adults. The research adopts a robust methodology, consisting of a systematic literature review and three sequential, cross-sectional, and descriptive quantitative studies. These studies allow for an integrated assessment of self-care needs, health conditions, and the outcomes of nursing interventions. The sample (527 participants from the Central Alentejo Local Health Unit) will be assessed using validated instruments, such as the WHODAS 2.0, the SF-36, and the Riegel Self-Care Scale. These tools ensure rigorous data collection on functionality, health, and self-care practices. The model introduces an innovative approach by incorporating Nursing Care Sensitive Indicators (NCSI), designed to objectively assess the impact of nursing care on well-being, autonomy, and functionality. This innovation ensures that the results reflect the conditions of the sample and provide measurable evidence to improve clinical practice and inform public policy. International scalability is a central priority, ensuring that the model adapts to different cultural and geographic contexts while respecting local specificities. This factor amplifies the study’s impact, positioning it as a replicable solution to address global challenges associated with active aging. It is expected that the preliminary results will provide a solid foundation for the creation of person-centered nursing care models that promote autonomy and active participation in self-care. These models will contribute to effective intervention strategies and to the overall improvement of the care experience and the efficiency of health systems. Its implementation could serve as a foundation for future research, expanding the impact of self-care to other groups and contexts. By aligning with global goals and utilizing validated tools and ISCE, this study contributes to scientific advancement and the transformation of health systems into more equitable, resilient, and person-centered models.