The increase in life expectancy is a worldwide phenomenon observed due to the rising proportion of the population aged 60 and above. In Brazil, the elderly population is projected to grow at a faster rate than the global average. By the year 2050, the number of elderly individuals worldwide is expected to double, while in Brazil it will nearly triple. Currently, the percentage of elderly individuals is 12.5%, and it is estimated to reach 30% by the mid-century [1-3].

Presently, there are approximately 20 million people aged 60 or above in Brazil, accounting for at least 10% of the country's population. According to statistical projections by the World Health Organization (WHO) between 1950 and 2025, the elderly population in the country is expected to increase fifteen-fold, while the overall population will only grow five-fold. Consequently, by 2025, Brazil is set to rank sixth in the world in terms of the number of elderly individuals, with approximately 32 million people aged 60 or above [1].

This rapid demographic and epidemiological transition pose significant challenges in the field of health, leading to the emergence of new demands and profound consequences for society and healthcare systems. Simultaneously, some stereotypes about elderly health are being dispelled, giving rise to new concepts and societal organizations [3, 4].

Due to increased longevity and modernity, hormone replacement therapy for women and erectile dysfunction medications for men have emerged. As a result, the elderly are rediscovering pleasurable experiences, including sexual activity. However, unsafe sexual practices render the elderly more vulnerable to Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) [5-7].

To comprehend sexuality in the elderly, it is essential to consider that aging, as a transitional phase, is influenced by a significant set of factors that directly or indirectly impact behavior and sexual response. This fundamental human need, irrespective of age group and its modes of expression, is influenced by various well-studied factors, such as biophysiological, health, psychological, cultural, educational, institutionalization, and the dynamics of sexual relationships [8-10].

Despite the numerous difficulties encountered during the aging process, sexuality should not be dismissed as unimportant, as it is a vital physiological need of human beings. Currently, sexuality is recognized as one of the important dimensions of quality of life [5-8]. Studies demonstrate that in Brazil, cases of HIV/AIDS infection in the elderly predominantly occur through sexual transmission. Misconceptions held by family members and professionals that elderly individuals do not engage in sexual activity contribute to this perception [5, 10]. The National Program for Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and AIDS of the Ministry of Health has confirmed an increase in sexually transmitted infections among the elderly, particularly AIDS. The incidence of the disease among the elderly population has nearly doubled in the last ten years, rising from 7.3 in 1996 to 14.5 in 2006 [11].

Numerous educational technologies exist to provide information regarding health promotion, disease prevention, and different forms of treatment, which can be utilized within the context of HIV in the elderly. Considering the aforementioned circumstances and the physical and psychological vulnerability of this age group, as well as the lack of educational materials targeting HIV/AIDS prevention in the elderly population, this study aims to validate an educational audiovisual technology for HIV/AIDS prevention among the elderly population.

It is a methodological study that aims to investigate the development and validation of technologies, including products, processes, policies, and educational programs, with potential applications and usefulness in existing teaching-learning methods.

To achieve the proposed objectives, the study consisted of two stages: the first step involved the construction of an educational video based on a previously validated script, and the second stage focused on the validation of the educational video.

The script was developed after conducting previous research on the perception of the elderly regarding the risk of HIV contamination. Additionally, there are reports highlighting the challenges faced by this population in living with HIV/AIDS. The video production involved a detailed script that guided the production team during filming and scene selection. The script aimed to provide textual information to the reader about what the viewer will see and hear in the video [8]. The development of the script followed audiovisual pedagogy principles in an attempt to effectively convey scientific knowledge through the video medium.

After the video script was prepared, it underwent validation by judges who conducted technical and content analysis, ensuring the accuracy and appropriateness of the text. The judges were experts in the field of health, specifically in STI/HIV/AIDS and educational technologies for the elderly. Nine specialists were invited to participate in the validation process, selected through intentional sampling, which allowed for the voluntary selection of individuals with expertise in the study's subject matter. The selection was based on recommendations from other professionals in the field. This intentional sampling approach was chosen based on the assumption that the researcher's knowledge of certain subjects can contribute valuable data to the research. Moreover, the careful selection of individuals with pre-established characteristics offers both theoretical and practical benefits for the development of the video [12, 13].

Professionals from the Health Care Network for the Elderly and the STD/AIDS departments of the Municipal and State Secretaries of Ceará were invited, along with the researchers from various universities. Out of the judges selected for the study, 10 were contacted via email, telephone, and social networks, and three were contacted in person after accepting their participation in the study. Information about the process, including video content validation, was sent to them via email along with an official letter of invitation.

Data collection involved the use of instruments for video assessment. Technical, content, and appearance experts from both the healthcare and audiovisual communication fields evaluated the following topics: objectives, content, relevance, ambiance/presentation, functionality, and usability.

The instrument used for the expert judges to fill out consisted of a total of 37 evaluative items (affirmatives) grouped into nine categories. The aspects evaluated by the experts in each variable were: objectives, content, relevance, functionality, usability, efficiency, and audiovisual resources. The instrument for validating the video content was designed to assess the relevance and clarity of the instrument itself. Each criterion in the assessment was assigned a concept on a Likert five-point scale, and each rater scored their degree of agreement. The response scale was as follows:

5 = I totally agree

4 = I agree

3 = Neither agree nor disagree

2 = I disagree

1 = I totally disagree

The judges were asked to provide written observations at the end of each evaluated item in case of disagreement, as well as to report any identified errors or absence of pertinent subjects in the video. The importance of these records was emphasized for the adaptation and improvement of the technology.

The adequacy of the behavioral items was analyzed using the Content Validity Index (CVI). The CVI calculates the proportion of experts who considered the content to be valid for each item. For the entire instrument, the CVI measures the proportion of all items evaluated as having valid content. The index was calculated by dividing the sum of responses considered adequate by the total number of answers [14].

An agreement was considered good when the I-CVI values were greater than or equal to 0.80 and the S-CVI values were greater than or equal to 0.90. For agreement index analysis, Pasquali [15] suggests an index that is considered satisfactory above 80%. The CVI is a useful measure for quantifying the level of agreement among experts. Items that obtained agreement rates equal to or higher than 80% were considered validated, while those with lower agreement rates were reviewed.

The study followed the principles of Resolution No. 466/12 of the National Council of Health/Ministry of Health, which pertains to research involving human subjects, and adhered to ethical principles in research. The research project was submitted to and approved by the Research Ethics Committee under protocol no. CAAE 24830614.8.0000.5052 at the University of Fortaleza (UNIFOR).

The educational video examined in this study is the first of its kind to be developed on a national and international scale within this theme. It obtained a CVI ranging from 0.8 to 1.00 and a high level of agreement, predominantly falling between 80% to 100%. Consequently, it can be considered an instrument capable of contributing to the prevention and promotion of health in relation to the transmission and prevention methods of HIV/AIDS among the elderly population within the context of educational activities.

The final version of the educational video has a total running time of 13 minutes and 37 seconds, divided into multiple series with varying durations, including the credits. The duration of each series adheres to technical recommendations for educational videos to ensure that the audience remains engaged with the content effectively [16].

To ensure the accuracy of the evaluation, great care was taken in recruiting professionals who possess expertise in the subject area covered by the video. Only highly qualified professionals were sought to evaluate the developed technological material. It is ideal for professionals to possess the necessary skills and specialized knowledge, establishing them as authorities on the subject matter.

The video was also analyzed in relation to its purposes and goals across eight thematic categories, including considerations such as: Does the information align with the daily needs of the elderly in HIV/AIDS prevention? Is the information significant for the quality of life of the elderly? Does it invite or inspire behavioral and attitudinal changes? Can it be shared within the scientific community? Does it fulfill the objectives of professionals and institutions engaged in elderly care and HIV/AIDS prevention activities?

The development and implementation of educational technology (ET) can lead to behavioral changes, instilling confidence in patients to adopt health-promoting behaviors and fostering a critical awareness of living conditions and health issues. Education holds undeniable importance and serves as a powerful tool in health promotion, enabling the transformation of individual practices and behaviors while fostering autonomy and enhancing the quality of life of the elderly [17].

The evaluation conducted by the judges also indicated that the video fulfills the objectives of professionals working with the elderly population and institutions involved in HIV/AIDS prevention actions, and it is suitable for dissemination within scientific circles.

Professional judgment should be considered in the health education process. This stage of evaluation is also a learning experience and requires us to be open to criticism in order to create something that meets the expectations and needs of individuals who possess different knowledge and interests than our own [18]. Studies confirm that educational materials produced effectively and appropriately for their intended audience can bring about significant changes in the reality of a population. Therefore, it is important to consider the purpose of the material and the expectations of the target audience [19]. Among the various educational technologies available, videos are considered essential for mass communication, especially in communities that are difficult to reach, as long as they present visually engaging content that captures the viewers' interest [20].

Subitem 2.4 obtained a CVI of 0.8, indicating that the grammatical style is compatible with the level of knowledge of the elderly population. This finding supports Ostherr et al.'s [21] assertion that the vocabulary used should align with the message and the target audience, being inviting and easy to understand. When transmitting audiovisual content, it is crucial to respect the language, knowledge, and culture of the viewers. The dialogue between characters should be consistent with the viewers' level of understanding, replacing scientific terms and complex phrases with more accessible language that is easier for the public to comprehend [14]. The information conveyed must be scientifically accurate and presented progressively, consistently, and as comprehensively as possible. It should reflect reliable scientific literature.

On the other hand, relevance is linked to what is indispensable, important, and meaningful in a given context. Therefore, an effort was made to address relevant aspects of the prevention of HIV/AIDS among the elderly population, aiming to include the elderly in the process and encourage reflection on the importance of HIV/AIDS prevention measures, which have been historically undervalued by public service policies in the country. Education and culture are inseparable aspects of paramount importance in the field of health, whether within academic settings or community environments. They enable professionals to broaden their perspectives on healthcare processes [19].

Comparato [22] emphasizes the importance of selecting the environment in which the drama will unfold. The author asserts that the “where” encompasses not only geographical elements but also a multifaceted aspect of reality. Factors such as camera angles, lighting, spatial proportions, sets, decor, costumes, and props are all essential elements in creating an audiovisual setting.

The educational video (EV) has the ability to make information universal and adaptable, as it generates interest among individuals from diverse social classes and educational backgrounds, belonging to any community. Furthermore, videos have the power to educate, discuss, disseminate information, evoke emotions, and provide a voice and opportunity for people. Literature showcases numerous successful experiences that highlight the importance of using videos as instructional tools, as they facilitate audience understanding and interest in the subject matter, enhancing the teaching and learning process.

Using simple language can also enhance patient motivation to engage with and maintain interest in educational materials, minimizing communication barriers and increasing efficiency and reach. Well-prepared content or information presented in a clear and easily understandable manner improves patient knowledge and satisfaction, influences health-related behaviors, and facilitates decision-making.

The evaluation of the educational technology was completed by content judges, including nursing specialists and an audiovisual communication technician, with revisions made based on the suggestions provided by some experts. Prompt attention was given to these suggestions to optimize the use of the developed educational technology. This process of adapting the video according to the judges' recommendations is an essential step in making the technology more comprehensive, scientifically rigorous, and effective in achieving its intended objectives. It is a demanding process that involves gathering all the suggestions, analyzing them, assessing their implementability, and restructuring the video's script to incorporate the proposed improvements. However, the rewards are significant when one observes the substantial progress achieved for the target audience. This stage is also recognized by researchers as highly important for enhancing the material to be validated, involving revisions, information deletion, and/or substitution of terms as suggested.

This research has limitations, the first of which pertains to the representation of the target population that can be minimized as reported by other studies [4, 23, 24]. The evaluation of the educational video was conducted by content judges, including nursing specialists and an audiovisual communication technician. While these professionals possess expertise in their respective fields, their perspectives may not fully capture the diverse experiences and perspectives of the elderly population targeted by the video. A second limitation of this study is the potential influence of contextual factors on the effectiveness and applicability of educational video. The evaluation focused on the adequacy of the content, presentation, and usability of the video, but did not take into account the specific contextual factors in which the video would be implemented, such as cultural differences, socioeconomic backgrounds, or educational levels of the target audience. These contextual factors can significantly impact the reception and effectiveness of educational interventions. Future research should consider these contextual factors to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the video's effectiveness in diverse settings.

The validation of this educational technology underwent a rigorous development process by a video production team experienced in creating works of this nature. It was validated by expert judges in the fields of nursing and audiovisual/cinema communication in terms of content, technical aspects, and appearance. This process allowed the evaluators to identify weaknesses in the development of the educational tool and provide suggestions based on technical-scientific experiences, tailored to the characteristics of the target population.

The video represents an impactful technology for preventing HIV/AIDS in the elderly population and can be utilized by various professionals in their health education practices across primary, secondary, and tertiary spheres. The meticulous attention and care given to the construction and validation of this educational technology demonstrate the autonomy that new technologies, such as videos, provide to healthcare professionals. These innovative methods of knowledge exchange with the public bring the addressed content closer to reality, sparking interest and fostering better learning.