Representations of Aging in Nursing and Social Work Students

Abstract

The professionals involved in supporting the aging process of older people play a decisive role in the psychological, social and health support of this age group. It is intended that these actors understand the aging process and know how to act with competence, enabling an adequate response to the needs of older adults. Therefore, it is important to invest in personal training and gerontology early on. This study had as main objective to know the visions of future professionals of social service and nursing on older people in order to identify their representations and perceptions about old age. The study participants were thirteen students (Women = 7; Males = 6), from the 1st to the 4th year, single, aged between 18 and 34 years. Participants have contact with older people aged 80 to 105 years. The sampling was non-probabilistic of the snowball type. The Focus Group technique was used for data collection. A script was created in seven strands: Positive and negative images of older people; Contact/conviviality with older people; Elderly Aging gains and losses; Work of the professional with the Elders of society; and Training needs on gerontology. The analysis of the results evidenced that future professionals reveal a differentiated understanding about the well and unsuccessful aging. They suggested formative orientations along with the respective courses that allow future professionals a more qualified practice to promote the quality of life of the elderly.