Subjetividad en la vejez: el deseo de reconocimiento y la dimensión afectiva del adulto mayor en contextos institucionales.

Abstract

This research addressed subjectivity in old age and the desire for recognition among older adults in institutional settings. This is crucial because many care models focus solely on biological needs, neglecting the psychological dimension of the individual. The main objective was to analyze the subjectivity of institutionalized older adults to understand their needs for recognition, to be heard, and for emotional expression. This allowed for reflection on a care model that, in many cases, focuses primarily on meeting biological needs and overlooks other important aspects of their well-being. A qualitative approach with a descriptive scope, based on the interpretive paradigm, was used, employing an analysis of the documentary "The Last Station." The results showed that the lack of participation of older adults in everyday life decisions can lead to infantilization and, at the same time, limit their autonomy. Without spaces to express their experiences, processing grief for the losses they suffer at this stage of life becomes more difficult. This is why it is necessary to move from a purely institutional model to a clinical support that gives back the voice and recognizes the older adult as a desiring subject until the end of their life.