"GROWING OLD IS AN ART": THE DIGNITY OF THE ELDERLY AND THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE BPC/LOAS AS AN INSTRUMENT OF SOCIAL PROTECTION

Abstract

This study addresses a matter of paramount importance to Law, which consists of a more humane perspective on the dignity of the elderly. At the same time, the subject focuses on the effectiveness of the Continuous Benefit Payment (BPC), provided for in the Organic Law of Social Assistance (LOAS) as a social protection instrument for this population. This study aims to analyze whether the legal criteria for granting the BPC/LOAS to the elderly are sufficient to guarantee the effective realization of the right to dignity for elderly people in vulnerable situations in Brazil. The methodology adopted consists of qualitative research, of an exploratory and descriptive nature, carried out through bibliographic review and document analysis. The results show that the BPC functions in an extremely important way for the elderly, as it helps to combat extreme poverty and promotes means of subsistence. Furthermore, through this minimum income, it is possible to minimize social inequalities among the elderly population. However, limitations regarding its effectiveness cannot be ignored, especially when considering the restrictive eligibility criteria, bureaucratic steps, and difficulties in accessing the benefit, which ultimately compromises the full realization of the guaranteed rights. It is concluded that, even though the BPC (Continuous Cash Benefit) represents an important instrument of social protection, its effectiveness still faces challenges that require improvements in public policies and, above all, more effective state action in promoting the dignity of the elderly. Expanding access to the benefit and revising eligibility criteria are alternatives that need to be considered so that this social protection occurs in a swift, transparent, and inclusive manner.