Serviço de convivência e fortalecimento de vínculos para pessoas idosas: um estudo nos CRAS do município de Pelotas

Abstract

The present academic work aims to present the results of a research that aimed to analyze whether the objectives of the Coexistence and Bond Strengthening Service (SCFV) for elderly people, carried out in the Pelotas Social Assistance Reference Centers (CRAS), are being guaranteed, considering the heterogeneity of its users. To this end, at first, it discusses population aging in Brazil, highlighting some theoretical perspectives that discuss old age, approaching this phase of life as a multifaceted process. It then discusses social assistance policy, describing its historical characteristics and the implementation process of the Unified Social Assistance System. Furthermore, debate on the Coexistence and Bond Strengthening Service for elderly people, describing and reflecting on its objectives. Finally, it presents the results of the field research carried out in the only two CRAS in Pelotas, that have the Service, considering that the others do not carry out the SCFV for elderly people. The research used the non-standardized interview technique and involved the participation of about 50% of users. The results show that this Service partially guarantees the objectives set out in its creation, because although it contributes to socialization and coping with social isolation, it does not carry out other important activities, such as intergenerational exchanges. The results also demonstrate that the number of CRAS that currently offer SCFV to elderly people in the municipality is insufficient given the size of the elderly population living in Pelotas. To this end, actions are needed by the local government to invest in CRAS in all neighborhoods, ensuring a greater supply of SCFV for elderly people and helping to ensure that its execution is carried out with quality.