Análise Reflexiva Sobre os Benefícios da Hidroginástica para a Saúde de Pessoas Idosas

摘要

The demographic transformation which started in the last century triggered a greater life expectancy. It characterizes an increase in the number of elderly people and evidences the importance of warranting the elderly not only a higher survival but also good life quality. Current paper analyzes the history of hydrogymnastics with special emphasis on general characteristics and its benefits for the elderly′s health, based on a review of the literature with a qualitative, descriptive and analytic design in databases of the Health Virtual Library. Three thematic axes were developed, namely, the history of hydrogymnastics, general aspects of hydrogymnastics and hydrogymnastics for the elderly. A reflection on the history of hydrogymnastics and its benefits ensued when practiced by the elderly. The regular practice of hydrogymnastics establishes a healthy life with physiological, psychological and social improvements.