AGING PROCESS FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF ELDERLY PRACTITIONERS OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Abstract

Aging is a natural process of every human being, which brings social, psychological and physical changes, but the way these changes occur can be perceived differently by each individual. The objective of this study was to understand the aging process from the perspective of elderly people who practice physical activity. This is a descriptive and exploratory qualitative study, in which 24 elderly people of both sexes aged 60 years or older, participants in the PILEU project (Institutional Program for Leisure and University Sports) of UNIPAR were selected through an intentional non-probabilistic sample. For data collection, anthropometric evaluations and perception of aging were carried out through individual interviews, in which the statements were grouped into categories. From the analysis of the reports, different feelings and perceptions of the changes arising from the aging process were observed, as well as the PILEU project as a promoter of healthy aging. It is concluded that, in general, the elderly in this study feel included in society and understand that physical activity plays an important role in the continuation and acceptance of aging, as the body needs to remain healthy and productive, especially to maintain autonomy.