SOCIAL AND FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS OF THE ELDERLY SERVICED BY UNISC

Abstract

This article aims to report the preliminary results of a study on the perception of elderly people of their family and social relationships. The sample was selected from UNISC extension projects and from elderly groups. Data collection was carried out through a structured interview that was recorded and transcribed. Of the 207 interviewed, 85% were women and 15% men, with ages ranging between 60 and 89 years. Senior citizen satisfaction with their groups of coexistence is also noticed within personal relationships with friends, where 98% of respondents said they are good or very good and only 2% are satisfactory friendships.With regards family satisfaction with their children and grandchildren it was observed that the elderly are very satisfied with their children (92%) and with their grandchildren (88%). In this context, the groups of coexistence appear as new alternatives to participate to occupy their spare time, when the elderly seek to meet their individual and social needs. Meeting people, making new friends, practicing physical exercises are reasons why older people continue participating in the groups, and encourage others to attend. Therefore, it is essential to create a network of services that will contribute to the quality of life of older people and their families, because we know that the experiences of everyday life with friends and family will help to better address their problems.