SOUZA, M. A.; http://lattes.cnpq.br/6456643162970629; SOUZA, Marco Antonio.
Abstract:
With the increasing of longevity, the number of elderly has been increasing considerably, the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics– IBGE shows that in 2025, Brazil will be the sixth oldest country in the world. Reaching the third age with an excellent health is of supreme importance for those we are studying here. To reach this stage of life so feared by the population, we need to pass through many transformations, mainly with our body. Having this scenario in mind, this research had by purpose to widely identify the importance and benefits that physical activities have on the health of the elderly, noting that those activities are used as treatment for some diseases that are common to this age group, having as subjects the participants of a socializing group. We could highlight the physical activities offered by the group “Alegria de Viver” to its participants, living in the city of Sumé, state of Paraíba. To this particular study, was used a questionnaire with the objective of gathering information regarding several factors that contribute to the need of practicing daily physical activities in order to achieve a better quality of life. Through bibliographic study, I investigated the aging process and the consequences it brings to the elders’ life, the significance of physical activity and the benefits it brings to their daily lives. At last, we conclude how important it is to perform physical activities on the third age, in order to have a healthier life.