Body and health: reflections on Body Practices among older adults in a Basic Health Unit in Goiânia, Brazil

Abstract

This qualitative research investigates the concepts of body and health in body practices among older adults who attend the Esporte e Lazer (Sports and Leisure) group at a Basic Health Unit in Goiânia, Brazil. The research has a qualitative nature. Six field observations were performed (and recorded) with about 30 members, as well as a focus group with five older adults. Data underwent content analysis. Results indicate hybrid conceptions, in a way that elements present in the individual’s life are confronted with those experienced by health practices. Body practices are meaningful life experiences toward an integrative perspective. Thus, although certain elements among older adults drive the comprehension of biopsychosocial factors, they often show aspects which reduce the body or health to biological determinism. Thus, professionals who work with older adults must make different propositions.

Promoção da saúde

“…A predominância da população feminina vai ao encontro das características observadas em outros grupos com ênfase na promoção da saúde 13 . A presença de mulheres no grupo pode estar vinculada à feminização do envelhecimento, maior autocuidado com a saúde, bem-estar e engajamento social em atividades comunitárias 14;15 .…”