Recreação e lazer como fator importante na qualidade de vida: o que pensa um grupo da terceira idade.

Abstract

This research is based on a study made with a group of elders in the city of Sumé, in the state of Paraíba. The study’s purpose is to know from these elders if the recreation and leisure activities are important factors for their quality of life. The research seeks to gather information about these activities performed by the group, showing the importance of playful activities during the aging process. The study follows a descriptive and exploratory methodology, as well as field research. The data is gathered by observing the application of interviews. The approach is in a qualitative and quantitative way, and in the data analysis is used a statistical descriptive method. The research works with the elders’ group “Alegria de Viver” from Sumé. The interviews are on what the elders think about the recreation and leisure activities performed. It was discovered that, in their opinion, those activities proposed, if made daily, are important factors for their quality of life as they contribute to a healthier life, reducing stress and pains on the body, as well as increasing friendship ties among the other participants, bringing feelings of happiness and wellbeing.