Aging process under the perspective of elderly participants in a center of coexistence

Abstract

The aging process requires new political and social investments, so that the elderly can experience this phase as natural and healthy. Therefore, this study aims to understand the perception of the elderly on their participation in activities sponsored by a community center . This is an exploratory qualitative study conducted in Maringá - PR , along with 13 elderly subjects. Data were collected in October 2011 at the center of coexistence through semistructured interviews and further subjected to content analysis . The results indicated the main factors valued by the elderly as the experience afforded by activities, such as leisure, occupation and improvement of mood, health care and pursuit of healthy lifestyles and literacy. Moreover, indicators of satisfaction related to the Center of coexistence became evident, as the attendance to the activities and the possibility to alert other seniors to participate. Therefore, we recognize the positive experience proportionated to the elderly in participating in the activities sponsored by the Center for Living and reinforces the need for health professionals to indicate these activities as a way of contributing to the promotion of healthy aging .