MACÊDO, Ana Paula Ferreira de.
Abstract:
Brazil is a country that has shown a steady growth in the number of elderly in the population, however, not always people coming seniors have a quality of life that provides a dignified and healthy longevity. In this situation, sees the emergence of groups of elderly individuals achieve or maintain better standards of living even with the limitations that age imposes. The aim of the study was to analyze, from the perspective of healthy aging, the elderly reported about the importance of participation in groups in the municipality of Cuité-PB. Consists of a field study of exploratory and descriptive, qualitative approach, developed with 30 elderly enrolled in CRAS (Rehabilitation Center of Social Assistance), located in the municipality of Cuité-PB. For data collection we used a semi-structured interview, using the technique of content analysis in thematic Bardin. Upon obtaining the results, it was found that the participants were between 60-81 years of age, with a prevalence of female sex, marital status as married or widowed were equivalent and stood out among the rest. Regarding profession and occupation, most were retired farmers and the current occupation that prevailed was domestic. It was possible to verify that the participants understand the issue of healthy aging as the physical activity associated with good nutrition. Lucidity was a focal point of research, as demonstrated concern that seniors have not only physical fitness, but also with the insight that directly influences their autonomy. The elderly also emphasized the importance of the group as a result of the formation of friendships, through the exchange of experiences and acquire new knowledge. It is undeniably contribution promoted by the Group, as it felt before pain, health problems and loneliness afflicting the lives of the elderly today the reality is different, they feel as young people to have the ability to live a normal, happy life and full of new achievements. Finally, the elderly emphasized the benefits achieved since they started attending the group, the whole evolution involving both in body and soul. The Joy of Living group has been achieving good results that guarantee satisfaction of the elderly, it helps to increase self-esteem, provides social interaction, promotes a healthy and active aging through development activities. However, it is suggested to the municipality focused on the study, encouraging the expansion of this initiative, both with regard to structural and material investments as the diversification of areas of assistance to the public.
