Envelhecer: um estudo de caso sobre as universidades da terceira idade no Brasil e Portugal

This is a documentary and case study carried out between 2016 and 2017, referring to Third Age Universities with the goal of describing university programs aimed at the elderly in Brazil and Portugal, with a focus on health literacy. The dialectic approach was used to analyze the documents found. Four universities from each country were considered for the study. It was found that the programs of these institutions have similarities and that, in Brazil, they are more linked to higher education and research institutions and, in Portugal, more to public and private social initiatives. The activities carried out contribute to active aging, social participation and improved quality of life. These programs are designed and provide social responses to the demands of mature people. The space is relevant to improve the level of literacy for the health of the elderly and can be an effective strategy for lifestyle changes and health promotion.