Relação entre ambiências, pessoas idosas e atividades físicas em praças de Salvador–BA

Introduction: The practice of Physical Education in public leisure spaces by the elderly and its relationship with the right to the city is a topic that remains little discussed. Open leisure spaces are created to foster encounters between individuals, bringing numerous benefits such as improving the livability of the urban environment. Among them are the opportunity for regular physical activity, social interaction, and the sharing of stories and life experiences. Objective: To describe the quality of squares in the city of Salvador-BA, and analyze their association with the frequency of use and the practice of physical activity by the elderly population. Methodology: Two squares were selected from neighborhoods with diverse socioeconomic status and access potential. Environmental quality was assessed using the Brat-Do instrument, and users' frequency of use and physical activity levels were assessed through interviews. Results: The data revealed that, even in places lacking urban public space quality, the proportion of active seniors is high. Although these locations may not be very attractive and require infrastructure improvements, the results demonstrated that the quality of the location alone is not the only factor influencing frequency and physical activity behavior. Conclusion: The findings suggest implementing policies for the maintenance and construction of structures, in addition to developing policies aimed at promoting health in leisure areas.