Projects and programs of physical activity for old in the public Brazilian universities: a general view

The objective of this work was to describe a structure of projects/programs existing today in Brazilian public universities, to identify similarities and divergences and to point out indicators for changing new applications. Qualitative research of the descriptive exploratory type. Data were collected using an online instrument with 54 program coordinators, analyzed using the content analysis technique proposed by Bardin. Results: Found similarities regarding teaching strategies for elderly people according to what scientific literature prescribes. There was disagreement regarding the offer of activities in the different programs surveyed; there is no activity model to be followed. There was disagreement as to the type of physical activity offered in the programs. Not all regions have well-structured programs, there is a lack of resources, materials and personnel with experience in the area of physical activity for the elderly; built structures and places for carrying out activities are lacking. The offer of physical activities for the elderly in public universities is not yet a reality in all of them. Most programs increase through university extension and have been one of the maintainers of their legacy. We understand that there are indicators for the formulation of new proposals, such as: the experience of professionals in the field of Physical Education in offering and structuring the physical exercise offered; the need for teacher and continuing training; research and extension together in teaching; the importance of the evaluation as a subsidy for the continuity and prescription of the proposed exercises.