Aim to identify the social representations of physical activity in the context of programs for the elderly in Natal (RN), Brazil. A study Cross-sectional quantitative and qualitative. A non-probability sample and for convenience was formed by seventy individuals. In data collection we used a questionnaire with demographic data, free association of words and open question. The core of the representation was composed of happiness / health / dance and gymnastics, revealing different understandings and also showing that accumulated knowledge of physical activity plays a central role in the lives of older people, gradually acquiring the representation of "life with better health and quality in old age". The composition of the core when considering mental elaborations, emotions, practices and explanations arising from daily life that are introduced into the constitution of social representation in focus, can influence the choices and strategies to promote improvement in health standards and quality of life of elderly.
aging; health of the elderly; Social Psychology
