PhD Project “Bodies that speak: A mixed methodological approach to care, well-being and representation of the body in aging”
Reference: 2025.03987.BD
Scientific area: Sociology
Supervisor: Maria Isabel Correia Dias (IS-UP)
Timeline: September 2025-September 2029
Abstract: The project investigates how older people represent and care for their bodies throughout the aging process, analyzing the influence of social discourses and the practices of professionals working in the field. It starts from the observation that there is still little scientific evidence about the meaning attributed to the body in old age, particularly regarding the importance of body care for health, self-esteem, and quality of life. This study aims to bridge this gap. To that end, it adopts a mixed methodological approach, combining interviews with a convenience sample of older individuals and surveys with a quota sample of professionals in the field. The project seeks to listen to the voices of older adults alongside those of professionals, and to produce knowledge that supports policies and actions promoting a more positive and inclusive body image in old age, valuing diversity and combating stigmas associated with aging bodies.
Target audience/final beneficiaries: Academic community and general population.
