School, Older Adults, and Physical Education. What Does the Scientific Literature Reveal?

Abstract

This study aimed to identify research addressing the theme of aging and old age within the school context and in Physical Education. It is an integrative literature review conducted through the CAPES/MEC Journals Portal and Google Scholar, using the following descriptors: school, elderly, Physical Education, and intergenerationality. Eight studies published between 2013 and 2022 were selected, highlighting a recent and still incipient body of work on the subject. The studies present an interdisciplinary character, with greater incidence in the fields of Health -especially Gerontology, Nursing, and Psychology- and contributions from Pedagogy, Sociology, and Anthropology. Among the main thematic axes investigated are: attitudes, beliefs, representations, and social practices regarding old age and the elderly; teacher education and the development of pedagogical materials; and intergenerational practices. The analyzed studies point to the persistence of prejudice against old age and the need to include gerontological education in school curricula, in a transversal way, in order to promote a culture of respect, appreciation, and coexistence between generations. It was also observed that there are no specific productions in the field of Physical Education, despite the area’s potential to articulate bodily practices and critical reflections on aging. This gap reinforces the need to expand research and deepen the discussion from the perspective of Physical Education teachers, contributing to a more inclusive and aware school in the face of population aging.