Author:

• Mariana Almeida Hein - Hein, M.A. - Palmas, TO - Universidade Federal do Tocantins - <mariana.hein@hotmail.com>

Co-author(s):

• Sérgio Seiji Aragaki - Aragaki, S.S. - Universidade Federal do Tocantins - <sergioaragaki@mail.uft.edu.br>

Thematic Area:

Saúde do Idoso

Abstract:

This study aimed at understanding the discursive practices and meanings that have been produced about the relationship between health and aging currently. The study was based on summaries of dissertations available in the portal CAPES (Coordination of Personal of Higher Education), for the period 2000 to 2009, accessed through the use of the following descriptors: aged, aging, old age, senescence, elder and old. Based on the material selected, 175 abstracts of papers, readings were made and created in-depth analytical categories. We conclude that there are several terms used to designate the persons in the life cycle studied: elderly, old and old age, with predominance of the first. Although there is still a negative connotation related to the elderly and aging, this is changing. Several directions are possible and coexist, forged according to historical, social, economic and cultural factors. Many problems faced by the elderly may be intrinsically related to how they recognize and are recognized by others. It is therefore essential to share the statement, the affirmation and the positive aspects of the elderly and the aging process, providing the care and protection of family and society in this social group.

Keywords:

Elderly Aging Health of the Elderly Quality of life.

Content:

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