The article discusses the assistance practices, policies, strategies and actions that the Brazilian government has formalized for the elderly's health. Although the subject "humanization" is present in several discussions and has become the guideline of the much acclaimed National Humanization Policy, these patients still face many obstacles in order to receive health assistance. To the disinformation and disrespect for elderly citizens are added the precariousness of public investments directed to the specific needs of this population, the lack of adequate infrastructure, the scarcity of specific programs and even of human resources. Therefore, we will make a reflection on humanization in health assistance focused on this population. First, we will revisit humanization in different scenarios of the health field, considering the importance given to the different subjects involved in this process, so that the care for this special and growing population is provided in an humanized way, since this is a special patient that requires differentiated care.
Humanization of Assistance; Quality of Health Care; Public Policies; Care for the Elderly