Meanings attributed by the elderly to the physiological changes brought by the aging process - DOI: 10.4025/cienccuidsaude.v8i2.8202

Abstract

Aging is a universal and progressive biological process, and, thus, its physiological bases should be better known. The present study has the objective to identify the perception by the elderly on their aging process and to relate them with the available theoretical referential. This is an exploratory-descriptive study with a qualitative approach. Data was collected on the 4th of the six meetings, with the elderly organized in two groups of family health, on April 2007. The technique of Content Analysis recommended by Bardin was applied. From that the following thematic aspects emerged: cutaneous, muscle-skeletal and neurological changes of the reproductive system and of the sensorial organs. This research supports the understanding concerning the physiological changes of the aging, still leaving some aspects to be reflected upon and pointing to the need of more studies on the subject, mainly focusing on the approach of the health professionals on the elderly.