Active aging from the perspective of aged individuals who are functionally independent O ENVELHECIMENTO ATIVO SOB O OLHAR DE IDOSOS FUNCIONALMENTE INDEPENDENTES EL ENVEJECIMIENTO ACTIVO BAJO LA VISIÓN DE ANCIANOS FUNCIONALMENTE INDEPENDIENTES

The objective of this study was to identify the social representations of the elderly regarding active aging. Semi-structured interviews were performed with 100 functionally independent aged individuals from João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil. The data was organized and analyzed using Alceste software. Results showed that the aged individuals' statements about active aging are permeated with positive contents. However, when aging is not associated with the word active, it is still represented as losses and disabilities. Despite the existence of losses during the process, active aging should be encouraged among the elderly, as it means living a quality, plentiful life. Maintaining the elderly functionally independent is the first step to achieving active aging and thus improving their quality of life.