Os significados que os pré-idosos e idosos atribuem ao trabalho remunerado

Abstract

The UN considers people aged 55 and over as pre-elderly, and those aged 65 to 75 as young elderly. In Brazil, population aging is on the rise rapidly, with the country expected to have one of the largest elderly populations in the world by 2030. Despite the challenges this presents in the job market, many elderly people want to remain active, as work can contribute significantly to your quality of life and personal development. Considering this, the general objective of this study is to understand the meanings attributed to paid work by pre-elderly and elderly people. Specifically, we sought to identify the socio-emotional connections generated by work; understand the benefits that work can provide; and, analyze the challenges faced by this age group due to paid work. For this, we rely on a qualitative, survey-type and non-probabilistic (convenience) method. The sample consisted of 17 pre-elderly and elderly people, of both sexes, aged 55 years or over, collected in person and online. Participants responded to a semi-structured interview guide and a sociodemographic questionnaire. Data were analyzed using the IRAMUTEQ software (i.e., Descending Hierarchical Classification and Similarity Analysis). The results suggest that pre-elderly people tend to achieve more positive than negative aspects of paid work. This study is relevant for professionals in the areas of education and health, as well as for the promotion of public policies and life projects, which encourage paid work in a dignified and healthy way.