Gerontologist's role in the universities of the third age during covid-19 pandemic: case study

Universities of the Third Age (U3As) generally aim to promote healthy ageing through educational and social activities, but since 2020, the social isolation of the Covid-19 pandemic has required a reorganization of these programs. This article discusses the possibilities of interventions and practices in a U3A to face the new reality of pandemic mitigation strategies, from the perspective of Gerontology interns who work in a U3A, comparing the moments before and during the pandemic. To this end, this experience report describes two case studies, being one related to internship before and the other during the Covid-19 pandemic. Data were collected through observational organizational diagnosis and document analysis. For the interpretation of the material, documentary and content analyzes were performed, making the comparison and discussion of the data. The Research Ethics Committee (CEP) approved this study. The results demonstrate that the gerontologist's role is broad, but digital literacy, information on digital inclusion policies, professionals trained to work with this audience, and strengthening professional bonds are more urgent in the Covid-19 pandemic.(AU)