A etnografia: um modo de entender a alimentação da terceira idade

Abstract

This study aims to investigate how elderly consumers experience their experience of food consumption. Through a qualitative methodology, “ethnographic inspiration”, we sought to understand how a group of elderly constructs meanings of consumption within their particular worldview. The content analysis of the interviews provided a set of findings relevant to a better understanding of the role of food in many everyday situations experienced by seniors consumers who contribute to the construction of meaning in the experience of food consumption. The transformations that occur in our society are reflected in all aspects of the individual’s life, including his relationship with the universe of consumption. Thus, based on insights drawn from the empirical data analysis, several categories emerged from the study and served to explain the phenomenon: Nostalgia, connecting with friends, family, fun, sharing, loneliness, religion, regional identity and habits. The food is part of life of consumers surveyed in the most anticipated and common everyday situations with a form of entertainment, information source, health, family and friendship, routine and sadness. Given the importance of food as an expression of personal identity, food takes on a symbolic value in the life of the elderly. It is hoped that the results of this research may contribute to both fill gaps in knowledge with regard to literature regards to food consumption and experiences with regard to the characteristics of old age.