Meanings of violence in old age: narratives and self-perception of elderly participants in a community center in São Paulo (SP)

The aim of this study was to identify and describe the meaning of violence and abuse against older adults from six participants in a senior centers of São Paulo/SP, as well as identify their knowledge about the provisions of the elderly statute regarding violence and neglect in old age. The research consisted of semi-structured interviews with open questions. The questions was qualitatively analyzed. The description of cases of violence included the lack of respect in the public transport, the cases reported in the media and family conflicts. Although participants have acknowledged the penalties contained in the elderly statute, they mentioned the need to recognize the elderly as a subject of rights for public policies and assistance, ensuring the autonomy and empowerment of older adults