O LAZER EM UM PROGRAMA DE EXTENSÃO UNIVERSITÁRIA COMO FACILITADOR NA VALORAÇÃO AO ENVELHECIMENTO

Abstract

This article is an excerpt from a qualitative, exploratory and descriptive study that sought to analyze and problematize the perceptions and experiences related to leisure of elderly men and women participating in a university extension program, with the aim of understanding the meanings attributed to leisure by this population and their implications for experiencing this right during the aging process. The research used forms and interviews to collect data which showed that the elderly perceive the program not only as leisure, but also as a space for personal recognition and appreciation of ageing. Some of the aspects highlighted in the answers and testimonies were socialization, respect, recognition and personal achievement. The study highlights the importance of the leisure spaces and times offered by the program in terms of the personal appreciation of the participating elderly population. Finally, it recognizes the importance of elderly subjectivities for building a plural and inclusive society.