Relação entre o envelhecimento da população e a prática de atividade física

Abstract

This dissertation performed a study identifying the relationship between the populations aging process and the practice of physical activies. A bibliographical research was done to obtain this objective. The research was deepened in the physiological adaptations occurring from the anging process and physical inactivity (FREITAS et al., 2002; OKIMURA, 2005; MATSUDO et al., 2000; ENOKA, 2000; SAMULSKI; LUSTOSA, 1996). The verification of the socio-demographical characteristics of the elder population were also an objective (gender, age group, marital status, education and monthly income) (PALLONI; PELÁEZ, 2003; IBGE, 2002; BERQUÓ, 1999; CAMARANO, 1999; CACCIAMALI, 2004a; NUNES et al., 2001; DUARTE et al., 2002) as well as the health characteristics of this population (TUBINO, 1992; ALMEIDA et al., 2002; DA SILVA, 2006; GORDILHO et al., 2000; VERAS, 2003; RAMOS, 2003). Beyond that, a Questionnaire, capable of identifying the reasons that lead elderly individuals to adhere and remain in the practice of physical activity for at least 6 months, was put together for future field research, since only a small quantity of related data was found in the current literature. It was then observed that the life expectancy of the worlds population has increased (OMS, 2001; IBGE, 2002). This increased is seen with a certain concern, because, as time passes, the elderly have a reduced capacity to perform daily routine activities without help, which may generate increased expenses for society (FERNANDES, 2001; BARBERGER-GATEAU et al., 1999). However, the practice of physical activities may delay or atenuate the aging process, returning some independence to the elderly (CARDOSO, 1992; McARDLE et al, 1998; MARIN-NETO, 1995; OKUMA, 1998; WILMORE et al., apud POLLOCK; WILMORE, 1993; PASCOAL et al., 2006).