Human Rights Public Policy and Social Representations of Aging among Older Adults with Visual Impairments in Ceará: The Experience of the Center for Visual Rehabilitation of Older Adults

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the social representations of old age constructed by older adults with visual impairments who participate in initiatives funded by the Ceará State Fund for Older Adults (FEICE), with emphasis on the activities of the Center for Visual Rehabilitation of Older Adults (CEREI). This exploratory qualitative study was conducted with 28 older adults living in Ceará and involved in initiatives supported by the Ceará Human Rights Secretariat. The data indicate that participation in projects funded by FEICE contributes to strengthening autonomy, self-esteem, social belonging, and support networks, while fostering processes through which old age and visual impairment are resignified. The findings underscore the strategic role of public funding in consolidating aging-related policies, as well as the importance of considering the social, economic, and cultural diversity of older adults in the formulation and evaluation of such policies.