Del analfabetismo funcional a la alfabetización crítica: incidencias sobre el adulto mayor

Illiteracy is a multidimensional problem that affects the capabilities of individuals and communities, reflecting the inefficiency of social policies. Based on the above, this article analyzes the evolution of the concept of functional illiteracy to critical literacy, with a liberating approach focused on the humanization of individuals. The research is conducted under the guidelines of the qualitative paradigm, using the documentary exploration method. Among the main findings are the different ways of addressing illiteracy and literacy programs, initially focused on reading, writing, and basic arithmetic, moving through traditional adult literacy, with a more individual-centered approach, to liberatory education, which calls for the transformation of social settings, respecting the culture, experience, and tradition in which those learning to read and write operate. It is concluded that critical literacy transcends the acquisition of rote skills, becoming a process of ongoing humanization, social participation, and the expression of human rights.