Did you know that the number of elderly people in São Paulo has more than halved in the last 12 years? That’s what a City Hall study based on IBGE data says. Currently, it is estimated that there are more than two million people aged 60 or over in the capital – 51% more than in the 2010 survey. São Paulo residents are living longer and longer!
With the growth of this population, we have also seen an increase in the number of outings on offer for the elderly and their families, who in many cases are looking for quiet places to relax and socialize. The good thing is that São Paulo has many spaces and activities with reduced rates or even free for the elderly, which makes it easier to go out.
So here are some of the benefits that people over 60 enjoy in São Paulo. As well as our guide to outings for the elderly, to enjoy with the family, alone or even as a couple!
What are the benefits for people over 60 in SP?
Here in São Paulo, older people have a number of benefits that can help reduce the cost of a trip.
Artistic, cultural and leisure events, for example, have free admission or reduced rates for senior citizens. In addition, all public or private parking lots should have spaces reserved for the elderly, always close to the entrances for greater convenience.
But if you don’t have a car, no problem. That’s because public transport is free for people aged 60 and over, as well as reserved seats for them. To take advantage of this benefit, you just need to apply for your Bilhete Único Especial Idoso at SPTrans service points. To do this, you need to bring a recent 3×4 photo and a simple copy of the following documents:
- Official identification document with photo;
- CPF;
- Recent proof of residence of no more than 6 months (e.g. telephone bill, electricity bill, gas bill);
- Contact telephone number(s).
It is also possible to request your Bilhete Único by post, by sending the necessary documents to Caixa Postal 77075, CEP 01014-970.
Walks for the elderly in São Paulo
São Paulo Museum of Art (MASP)
The capital’s most famous museum is a great place to visit for the elderly in São Paulo. This is because, as well as being half price for people over 60, the museum has a cafeteria and benches in the galleries, which make the visit more comfortable and accessible.
🎟 Half-price for senior citizens: R$35
Free admission on Tuesdays
Youth Park
With attractions for all ages, Parque da Juventude is also a great option for those who want to have fun in old age. After all, there’s plenty of green space, a walking track and even gym equipment to keep you active. The Circus World is also in the park and is a good tip for grandpas and grandmas who want to take their grandchildren for a walk.
São Paulo Municipal Market
For ladies and gentlemen who love a gastronomic stroll, the Mercadão is the best option. Offering various flavors and typical foods, it allows you to take a tour of São Paulo’s cuisine in a “root” way, with stalls and vendors. Our tip is to visit on weekdays, preferably in the morning, when the market is emptier and allows for a more leisurely visit.
SESC São Paulo
With several units throughout the capital, SESC offers programming for all ages, including the elderly. It’s the perfect place for art classes, gymnastics and aqua aerobics, for example. Or, for those looking for a leisurely stroll, the units also offer plays e free exhibitions.
Ibirapuera Park
Finally, we couldn’t fail to mention the capital’s most famous park. Due to its large size and green areas, Ibirapuera allows for peaceful and relaxing walks for the elderly and their families, as well as having museums inside, for those who want a dose of culture in the middle of their stroll. This is the case of the Emanoel Araujo Afro Brasil Museum, near gate 10 of the park.
🎟 Ibirapuera: free
🎟 Museu Afro Brasil: Half-price for seniors at R$7.50
Free entry on Wednesdays