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Elder Rights: World

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A World Tour of Older Persons Homes
Come on this World Tour to a little known place in the world to discover how older persons are living.

Background Documents

World: The Toronto Declaration on the Global Prevention of Elder Abuse (November 17, 2002)
This 2002 Toronto Declaration on elder abuse is a call for action to prevent older persons from suffering abuse. This paper points out the crucial need of a legal framework to address the issue. As violence against women or children was considered a major issue in the 80’s, today elder abuse should be viewed as a social issue of concern to everyone.

World: Ending Discrimination Against Older Women Through the Convention (July 5, 2002)
The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women "urges that special attention be focused on the special needs of older women." The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women "defines what constitutes discrimination against women and sets up an agenda for national action to end such discrimination."

Uganda: Mukono Retired Teachers Demand Re-Employment (October 19, 2008)
Retired teachers in Uganda’s Mukono region are urging the government to re-incorporate them into the workforce so they may earn an additional salary instead of relying solely on their retirement packages for living expenses. The retirees claim that 75% of civil servants do not know how to process their pension and that they have spent a lot of money and time in the pursuit of attaining their pension.

South Africa: Say No to the Abuse of Elderly (October 9, 2008)
“Old people fighting the terrible twins: TB and HIV,” “Age is Gold,” “Aged demand Action,” “Say no to the abuse of elderly.” These were the posters carried by hundreds of pensioners on the streets of Johannesburg, South Africa, during the march last week. The event was aimed at honoring senior citizens and creating awareness about the issues facing them. “We want to see an end to the abuse of the elderly. We want to see our grannies happy,” says Ndlanzi, a youth NGO leader. 

Uganda: Elderly Want Parliamentary Seat (October 5, 2008)
Seniors in Uganda have asked President Yoweri Museveni to allow five elected MPs to represent them in Parliament. Without proper representation, older persons are not able to have their concerns addressed and often suffer as the result of poverty and deprivation. 

Mauritius: African Rights Body Holds Consultative Meeting on Rights of Elderly (October 3, 2008) 
The African Commission on Human and People’s Rights is set to hold a consultative meeting on the “rights of older persons in Africa” for two days in Mauritius. The discussion will focus on developing a coordinated approach to protecting the rights of older persons while also concentrating on ways to improve the living and working conditions of seniors.

Reunion Island: An Exhibit for Senior Citizens Opens on the Harbor (September 18, 2008)
(Article in French)
What is there to do with so much spare time? This is one of the questions that the Salon for Senior Citizens, held on September 18 on the Harbor, tried to answer. The Salon covered a broad range of activities so that everyone could find something to suit his or her taste. For example, going to the cinema, hiking, keeping scrapbooks, etc. Besides providing retirees with ideas for how to occupy their spare time, the Salon offered ways of reducing their isolation. Because intergenerational solidarity matters to the organizers, the Salon was open to all.

Kenya: 88-Year-Old Man is Oldest Primary School Student in Kenya (August 5, 2008)
It is never too late to study and realize your dreams. This article is about Kimani Ng'ang'a Maruge, 88, who became the oldest man in Kenya to attend primary school. Dreaming about becoming a doctor one day, Kimani took advantage of the government's decision to offer universal free primary education. Kimani also gave a speech at the United Nations Headquarters on the importance of free primary education in Kenya. 

Zambia: The Silent Cancer of Elder Abuse (July 22, 2008)
Abuse of old people is rampant in Zambia, where the majority of culprits are the abused’s own relatives. Widows are still forced out of their homes. Old people, especially women, often fall victim to violence because of their vulnerability. Many are accused of witchcraft. Professionals face hurdles in addressing the situation because most cases are hidden. Poverty has been noted as a key reason behind abuse. How will the government protect the human rights of old people in Zambia? 

Burkina Faso: Call to End the Abuse of Older Women in Burkina Faso (July 18, 2008)
In Burkina Faso, older women are often used as scapegoats to explain crop failure or illness. They are labeled as witches. Accusations lead to intimidation, banishment, violence and, in many cases, murder. Customary laws in Burkina Faso make it difficult for the state to introduce legislation to protect older women from accusations of witchcraft and the consequences of the accusation. HelpAge International has urged the Government of Burkina Faso to review existing policy and make witchcraft accusations illegal.

Zimbabwe: 70-Year-Old Woman Latest Casualty of Zanu PF Brutality (July 9, 2008)
Some 18 Zanu PF youths beat and threw a 70-year-old Zimbabwean woman into her cooking fire. She was a well-known activist for the governmental opposition group (MDC) in Bindura and she died a month after the attack, due to severe injuries. Old people do not escape state-sponsored violence and often experience the full brunt of the crisis. The current political and economic turmoil has brought severe starvation. Food can only be bought at exorbitant prices. Some three million Zimbabweans have already fled the country. 

Malawi: Senior Citizens to Get Social Security (July 1, 2008)
The Malawi government plans to start a pension scheme for older persons. This will ensure that they will have access to basic necessities. The government also held a consultative conference in Blantyre to draft the National Policy for Elderly Persons. The policy is expected to protect the human rights of the elderly and help alleviate problems such as the HIV/ AIDS epidemic. Consultative conferences will also be held in Lilongwe and Mzuzu before holding a national meeting to finalize the policy proposal for the government. 

South Africa: Four Injured as Fire Breaks Out at Old Age Home (June 10, 2008)
That a fire broke out in a nursing home in South Africa is bad enough. But it was a very challenging situation for the caregivers to protect all of the elderly, especially when they wanted to go back to their rooms to pick up a special item or simply because they were cold. 

Uganda: 88-Year-Old Man Plants Mega Forest (June 4, 2008)
No one is too old to realize a dream. This reporter describes an 88-year-old man who dreamed of planting a mega forest. He knows that it will take almost 15 years before the trees mature. Why does he spend so much money for this kind of project? It is his passion. Also, he receives a government subsidy to encourage this kind of environmental investment.

Senegal: After the Student Riots of May 68 in France, ‘Barricades Grandpa’ Went to Senegal to Breed Crocodiles (May 16, 2008)
(Article in French)
”Barricades Grandpa” is now 65. He came to Casamance, a region in South Senegal, after the student riots of 1968 and fell in love with it. He now breeds crocodiles and sells their skins and meats to earn a living. The local populace has adopted Barricades Grandpa —who still looks like a hippie-- as one of their own and he is married to a Senegalese woman. His is a fascinating story. 

Senegal: Social Security and Care of Older Persons: Speech for the Defense of the Diversification of Services Supply (April 15, 2008)
(Article in French)
Government officials say that social security for older persons is not only about pensions. It is also important to support the needs of these most vulnerable citizens while diversifying care services. It should be noted that the Dakar nursing center is equipped with ultramodern medical technologies. 

Zimbabwe: Bumhudzo Old Peoples Home Loses 75 Chickens To Thieves (April 15, 2008)
Especially in times of food crisis it is important to respect each other. However, someone stole in Zimbabwe 75 chickens from a nursing home. Chickens are rare in this area. These 75 chickens were given to the nursing home as a gift for extra revenue. Most of the elders have no relatives to care for them, so they depend charity for donations. Many people volunteer their labor at the nursing home, owned and sponsored by the Salvation Army. At a time when elders are most vulnerable, in their old age, the theft was particularly hard to take. 

South Africa: Sick, Elderly at Frail Care Forced to Go Without Food (April 9, 2008)
In the state-subsidized Gelvan Park Frail Care Centre in South Africa, older patients had to go without food for several days due to serious financial problems in the institution. However, these old people still had to pay 80% of their pensions to the facility. This unfair and shocking situation happened at the same time the provincial social development department threatened to stop funding the institution because of bad financial management.

Zimbabwe: ‘Older Persons Need to be Loved’ (April 6, 2008)
(Article in French)
Penny Mharapara is an aging and disability expert from Zimbabwe. Reporters from Express Mu, a newspaper, interviewed him during his trip in Mauritius, where he gave lectures to educate care teams in nursing homes. For him, the main quality of an aide who helps older or disabled persons must be someone who loves them. 

Uganda: Elderly Persons Scheme Blocked (April 3, 2008)
The Uganda Parliament has blocked a fund that was supposed to go to elderly people. Political representatives, as well as some non-governmental organizations like the Aged Family Uganda, denounced the plan because of uncertain funding sources. The NGOs said they couldn’t identify clearly who would be the beneficiaries of the money. They also questioned the criteria used for selecting which districts would benefit from the scheme. 

Nigeria: Hungry and Angry, West Africans Say No to Continuously Rising Food Prices (April 3, 2008)
As Global Action on Aging reported previously, the food situation in Africa is getting worse. Demonstrations against high food and fuel costs will no doubt increase, especially in West Africa. Many people live near to starvation. Residents of both urban and rural suffer. In West Africa, high unemployment and a regression of democracy have a negative impact on both old people and young.

Cameroon : National Forum of Social Protection in Yaounde (March 19, 2008)
(Article in French)
The author, Isabelle Essono, of this article from Cameroon appeals for respect and solidarity towards older people. Quoting several African proverbs, the author explains that care and respect of older persons are essential for a well-functioning society. The National Forum of Social Protection began on March 18, 2008, in Yaounde (Cameroon). The participants took up the topic of social security for older persons for the first time and treated it as a major issue. 

Uganda: Elderly Want Parliament Seats (February 15, 2008)
Older persons in Uganda are demanding more representation in Parliament as well as in other special interest groups. On a 10 page petition that over 100 older people signed, older persons argued that the disabled, youth, women and workers had representation while the elderly were left unrepresented. The Chairman of the Electoral Commission refused this argument saying no law required such representation. Stay tuned for further developments. 

Zimbabwe: Non Profit Organizations Act to Help Older Persons (January 18, 2008) 
(Article in French)
Elderly people in Zimbabwe have trouble providing for their vital needs. The increased food and fuel prices make it difficult for older people to have access to supplies. Even if they have the money, they often are not able to get enough to eat because of food shortages. The non-governmental organization SOAP (Supporting Old Aged People) gives retired people material and financial support to help them cope with daily life.

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Americas & Caribbean

Peru: National Plan for Elderly (2002-2006)
(Article in Spanish)
The National Plan for Elderly was created to lay out action steps that the government would take on aging issues in Peru. The elderly population in Peru is 7.2% and could reach 13% by 2025. This plan aims to integrate the elderly in the society, by increasing the quality and quantity of health care services, by creating policies of food assistance and by helping old people enjoy a pleasant life with their families and in society. Another National Plan objective is promoting a positive image of older persons.

Mexico: Law For Older Persons in Mexico City (Distrito Federal, México) (1999)
(Article in Spanish)
A new law for older persons in the city of Mexico (Distrito Federal de México) took effect in 1999. This law affected all persons older than 60 years old. The law’s aimed to integrate the elderly into society and to improve the quality of life. The law includes sections related to health, food, social assistance, participation, and work. 

Reports | Articles

Reports

Canada: Family Relationship Quality after Admission to a Long-term Facility (September 2008)
When an older person enters a residential care home, a specific form of long term care facility, family members often feel a sense of guilt or inadequacy, which may affect the relationship with their loved one. This study uses interviews and focus groups to examine the changes in relationships between the older person entering the home and their family members. The research also investigates how policies in these homes can improve relationships between residents and their family members.

Canada: Effects of Neighborhood and Individual Change on the Personal Outcomes of Recent Movers to Low-Income Senior Housing (September 2008)
This study investigates the role of neighborhood and individual factors in the residential adjustment of seniors to Canadian government subsidized senior citizen apartment buildings (SCAs). Seniors usually move from housing to an SCA due to widowhood, declining health, decreases in financial resources and limited availability of informal caregiving networks. In this totally different residential environment, the resident’s adjustment to their new environment depends on amenities and social supports in the local neighborhood as well as fellow residents of the SCA. The study is expected to contribute to the development of more appropriate housing alternatives for seniors.

Report: How Much Do State Economic and Other Characteristics Affect Retirement Behavior? (August 2008)
Labor force participation varies significantly among the US states. What could be the reasons for such disparities? The authors demonstrate that the differences in labor force participation of men age 55-64 can be attributed to economic conditions, the nature of employment and the employee characteristics in each state.

Canada: Retiring Together, or Not (April, 2008) 
Do dual-earning couples synchronize the timing of their retirements or not? The authors of this study investigated the changes in spousal patterns of retirement in Canada. Evidence indicates that since 1990s the retirements have become increasingly disjointed with husbands and wives retiring four or more years after their spouse. Why? Such couples make their decision based on age differences, health conditions, pension eligibility, job loss and career aspirations.

Portrait of the Canadian Population in 2006, by Age and Sex: Findings (July 2007)
This report provides a detailed overview of the age and sex data in Canada from the 2006 Census of Population. One primary finding from the Census was that the number of seniors has increased by 11.5% in the past five years, and the number of children has declined by 2.5% during the same timeframe. 

Canada: Labour Supply Effects of Informal Caregiving in Canada (December 2006)
This report examines the impacts of care giving to elderly persons on the caregiver’s labor market behavior, based upon data from the General Social Survey. In contrast to institution-based care given by paid health care workers, a vital component of elderly care in Canada is significantly performed by unpaid caregivers, such as friends or family, and constitutes as much as 80 percent of care given to elderly Canadians. 

                                              Articles

Canada: Welcoming the Approach of the Golden Years (November 13, 2008)
This article examines commonly-held fears of aging, such as dementia, physical debilitation and the stigma of becoming “old.” The author, however, distinguished between being “elderly” and being an “elder.” In his book, From Age-ing to Sageing: A Profound New Vision of Growing Older, Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi argues that the former term describes an older person who merely acquiesces to life's final passage, whereas the latter term describes an older person who confronts aging with “intention, determination and purpose.”

Canada: Why They Do It (November 10, 2008)
Reading this article provides an informative insight into what motivates specialists to go into the career of geriatrics. The overwhelming reason was because of a close relationship with a grandparent or older relative during childhood. Neena Chappell, a gerontologist who set up centers on aging at the University of Manitoba, comments on her own motivation; "People who have lived so many years have wisdom; they've learned a lot." 

Honduras: Older Persons Living in Loneliness and Abandonment (November 3, 2008)
(Article in Spanish)
“I used to be a flirtatious dancer,” says Corina Bogran, a 99-year-old woman. Many older persons like Corina can be found in nursing homes around Honduras. Many of them have been taken to these homes involuntarily or in some cases they have been found in their home alone, neglected by their family. Many do not receive visits from family members, but at the nursing home they feel secure because they receive enough care to live happily for their remaining years. 

Costa Rica: One of Every Four Older Adults Lives in Poverty (October 29, 2008)
(Article in Spanish)
Rapid aging is a growing problem that many countries are facing. In Costa Rica, for example, statistics show that many older people are living in poverty, even those who live with their families. The problem lies in the small amount they receive in pensions, giving them minimal help with expenses around the house and not enough to improve their quality of life. In the next twenty years, the number of older persons living in Costa Rica is predicted to triple, making it critical for the country to prepare and provide more resources to help retirees achieve the life they deserve.

Ecuador: Recreation, A New Right for Older Persons (October 20, 2008) 
(Article in Spanish)
Under the new Constitution, the state is required to create programs that will aid in the growth and enrichment of older adults. Once they reach the age of 65, retirees need something to do to occupy their time and to feel useful and live happily in their last years. These centers offer a variety of enriching activities such as painting and tai chi, among others. At this time there is a waiting list to get into some of these centers, making it even more important for the government to open more facilities throughout the country.

Canada: Cash-Strapped Boomers a Gift to Employers (October 18, 2008)
As baby boomers retire, so does their experience, knowledge and expertise. Yet older workers who choose to postpone their retirement may actually help the ‘knowledge’ gap anticipated by employers in coming years. Companies are urged to provide sabbaticals or shorter working hours to its employees in order to discourage early retirement.

Ecuador: Abandoned Seniors Have Hope (October 5, 2008)
(Article in Spanish)
“Loneliness is the only thing that accompanies me” are the words of Angel Guillermo Rodriguez, a 96-year-old Ecuadorian man who finds himself alone and waiting for death to free him from his loneliness. In Ecuador the new Constitution will make it possible for older persons to receive better care at home as well as in other institutions. The new Constitution will also forbid the abandonment of old people by family members and by nursing homes and will grant them universal retirement. These changes will be beneficial to older people, since most of them are not covered by social security and are forced to take care of themselves until their death.

Nicaragua: Serious Difficulties in Nursing Homes (October 1, 2008)
(Article in Spanish)
Agustín Sánchez Vigil nursing home houses 28 older people including, Juanita Cerda, who is 106 years of age. Old women such as Juanita cry with emotion at the sight of a rare visitor at the home since not many of them receive visits from family members. The nursing home is currently in need of governmental help and funding to remain open and in good condition.

Canada: Half of Elderly Canadians Online; Nearly 1 in 5 of Those Social Networking (September 24, 2008)
Nearly half of Canadian seniors use the Internet for e-mailing or research purposes. Out of those users, a study shows that 1 in 5 also use the Internet for social networking. There has also been a decline in traditional media usage, such as television since 2004, yet figures suggest that the Internet does not replace traditional media usage, but supplements it instead.

Canada: Kensington Health Centre Partners with University Health Network to Establish World-Class Community-Based Residential Hospice Home in Toronto, Ontario (September 18, 2008)
Scheduled to open in late 2009, Kensington's new Hospice Home will be available to provide end-of-life care to people who reside in the Toronto area. The collaboration with the University Health Network and the palliative team at Princess Margaret Hospital will provide the Kensington health care team with an opportunity to work with internationally renowned experts in the field of palliative care, education and research. Key areas of focus include mentoring medical, nursing and other health professionals in the palliative care model, development and application of comfort measures and pain management and bereavement counseling techniques.

Canada: Women, Baby Boomers Swell Ranks of Vancouver’s Homeless (September 18, 2008)
Homelessness among Canadian baby boomers has increased, especially among women over the age of 55. Although researchers have not determined a direct cause, they still warn that with increasing older age demographics, elderly homelessness will remain a significant issue. The duration of homelessness among older women, however, is often not permanent and is relatively short-lived. 

Canada: Retired Miner Keeps Mining History Alive (September 15, 2008)
Hans Brasch, a retired German immigrant, has completed three books dedicated to his experience as a miner in the Sudbury basin. Through semi-clandestine photography, Brasch has documented the development and evolution of the mining company Inco, from a miner’s perspective. Although retired, Brasch continues to work with Inco by lecturing students on the history of mining. 

Bahamas: Adult Day Care (September 15, 2008)
While daycare has traditionally catered to working parents with young children, it has recently begun to serve as a care center for seniors as well. Not only does elderly daycare provide daytime relief for working families, it also allows seniors to remain in a social and interactive setting that doesn’t require the commitment and isolation that is often associated with nursing homes.

Canada: New Plan for Seniors Outlined (September 13, 2008)
The province of British Columbia, Canada, is expanding home care to avoid forcing the elderly into nursing homes. The plan has four cornerstones: developing "age-friendly communities," supporting volunteerism, promoting healthy lifestyles and supporting older workers. Expanding the availability of home support is expected to cost money, but much more will be saved by reducing the heavier burden of funding long-term care facilities.

Antigua and Barbuda: Government Introduces New Elderly Care Programme (September 12, 2008)
The government of Antigua and Barbuda has launched a new initiative called the Government’s Residential Assistance and Care Program for the Elderly (GRACE), in an attempt to revitalize the current social infrastructure for elderly care. Replacing the government’s former Home Help program, the Minister of Social Transformation said that the new initiative will be all-encompassing and hopefully will remain unaffected by local politics. 

Canada: Baby Boomers’ Housing Needs Hard to Pinpoint (September 11, 2008)
The Calgary housing market will have to consider age-specific factors to accommodate the city’s baby boomer population. With the onset of retirement for younger baby boomers, builders must realize that the needs and demands of a 55-year-old differ from that of a 75-year-old. While terms like “senior” and “elderly” might attract the latter group, it could also frighten away the former group.

Jamaica: Seniors to be Recognized for Contribution to Nation-Building (September 5, 2008)
The commencement of Jamaica’s 37th senior citizens week will begin on September 7. This year’s theme will focus on elders who have contributed to the development of the nation. An array of programs has been planned, including debates, a senior talent show and other cultural events. 

Canada: Fighting `Invisible Discrimination' Against Age (September 3, 2008)
The ninth annual Global Conference on Aging will be held in Montreal. The objective is to discuss what has been called “invisible discrimination” against older persons. Considerations that normally go unnoticed, such as fast-paced cross-walk signals, are key items that will be discussed. About 40 cities have already embraced the “global age-friendly cities” initiative, whose characteristics have been outlined by the World Health Organization. 

Canada: Canada Offers to Compensate Nuclear Test Veterans (September 2, 2008)
Canada has offered compensation to veterans exposed to nuclear radiation for up to $22.4 million. Defense Minister Gordon O'Connor launched a report in 2006 to calculate how many Canadians exposed to nuclear radiation have not been recognized. Although the exact number of recipients is not final, estimates are around 1,000. Veterans have already initiated a class-action lawsuit against Ottawa, where military personnel decontaminated a nuclear plant in the 1950s. 

Canada: Seniors' Federation Holds 33rd Convention (August 12, 2008)
“No fun – No Life,” says the motto of the Newfoundland and Labrador Pensioners & Senior Citizens 50+ Federation hosting its annual convention this year. The Federation allows seniors to voice their concerns to the government and, what is more important, government has always been receptive to the proposed changes. “Seniors care about themselves and their families and only through interactions between each other, and our government, can we ameliorate harshness,” stressed the Federation President Don Holloway.

Canada: Give Them Shelters (July 29, 2008)
For many older adults, living at home is a challenge because of abuse by their own immediate family. Bernice Sewell has set up two apartments in secret locations for old people fleeing this situation in Toronto, Canada. The victims may stay in the apartment for 60 days and receive counseling and support. The idea has already been around for ten years, but it is only becoming popular today. At a time when it is estimated that 10 percent of the elderly are experiencing abuse, homes such as these are truly making a difference. 

Latin America: From Washington: the Challenges the Elderly Face in Latin America (July 27, 2008) 
(Article in Spanish)
This article describes the treatment of elderly people in Latin America and compares it to treatment in the United States. In many Latin American countries, the level of poverty among older people is higher than the national average. This is why it is so important that they receive health coverage and pensions; however, only a small percent do. Many don’t work in the formal sector, making it impossible for them to receive the benefits they need to improve their quality of life. 

Argentina: Only One Person in Charge of Deceased Elderly in Geriatric Facility (July 24, 2008) 
(Article in Spanish)
On Wednesday, a geriatric facility in Castelar, Buenos Aires, caught on fire. Out of the 17 elderly people there, 7 died. Even though 70 to 80% of them had motor or mental problems, there was only one employee available to care for them. As a result, it was impossible to evacuate all the older persons, leaving some dead in their beds while others died trying to escape. 

Cuba: Cuba Plans to Delay Retirement By 5 Years (July 11, 2008)
(Article in Spanish)
Due to worries about the country's aging, Cuba hopes to delay the retirement age by five years. This will occur between 2009 and 2015. From then on, men will retire at 65 years of age and women at 60 years. Cuba will become one of the countries with the most elders in Latin America. Retirement is voluntary in Cuba

Uruguay: Closure of 38 Elder Homes (July 7, 2008)
(Article in Spanish)
Since 2005, 32 elder homes have closed throughout the country. The MSP (Ministry of Public Health) closed 38 homes due to non-compliance with standard requirements such as cleanliness, adequate diet, living space and healthcare service for the residents. The MSP will put forth a plan to establish an alternative to elder homes. Elders over 65 years make up 13% of Uruguay's population. Almost half of the old people are institutionalized. 

Mexico: Euthanasia Tourists Snap Up Pet Shop Drug in Mexico (July 2, 2008)
With $35-$50, older tourists to Mexico can purchase drugs in pet shops that are used to euthanize animals. The drug pentobarbital provides a painless method for suicide. ‘… I don't want to die with a total loss of dignity…” said Bron Norman, a 65 year old Australian tourist. Aging has sparked interest in euthanasia. Anti-euthanasia advocates stress economics as the reason behind euthanasia. “…It is cheaper to get rid of someone than to treat them well until the day they die," said Lori Kehoe of the National Right to Life movement. However, many persons with terminally ill diseases want the choice of ending their lives painlessly

Cuba: In 2020 Cuba Will Have More Elders than Children (July 1, 2008)
(Article in Spanish)
Experts affirm that in 12 years Cuba will have more elders than children. Only 11.3 percent of the population was over 60 years in 1985. Because of a longer life expectancy—with life expectancy expected to reach 78 years--Cuba could possibly become the country with the oldest population.

Costa Rica: An Adolescent Kills His Great-Grandfather (July 1, 2008)
(Article in Spanish)
A grandson killed his great-grandfather, 87-year-old Alfredo Quirós Barrientos, because he refused to give him money. The adolescent also injured his great-grandmother, 86-year-old Adela Loaiza Brenes, before escaping. The great-grandmother remained at the Max Peralta Hospital. The adolescent was found. He denied having killed his great-grandfather but soon after, family members of the victim identified him as the killer. The adolescent has been placed in jail as a precaution for two months until his sentence is determined. 

Canada: Critical News from the East Side of Montreal (June 30, 2008)
(Article in French)
This account spotlights three aged persons sitting in a park in Montreal absorbed in their own lives. Old and unemployed, they feel empty and deprived of any pleasures in life. These three homeless and unemployed older persons reveal the effect of unemployment in Canada.

Canada: Each Year, We Get Older (June 25, 2008)
(Article in French)
More and more, the Quebec population is aging...Statistics show that, on average, one citizen in four will be more than 65 years old in 2015. The elderly are living longer: life expectancy has increased by 7 years for men and 13 years for women since the beginning of the century. Furthermore, at 65, old people seek stability, security, comfort and health and so become more calm and peaceful. On the other hand, there are some who report that the elderly in Quebec become increasingly demanding and conservative as they age.

Argentina: Nearsighted Views About Ageing (June 23, 2008)
(Article in Spanish)
The UN has created a day, June 15, to highlight elder abuse. Most news stories focus on robberies, murders, and gross mistreatment in hospitals. However, families often abuse and discriminate against older persons in the household. Ageism, a more concealed form of mistreatment, creates segregation within families by isolating older people.

Peru: Elderly Mistreatment Generally Caused by Families (June 22, 2008)
(Article in Spanish)
In 2005, the Ministry of Women and Social Issues (MWSI) presented a report on "Domestic Violence in the Elderly in Peru." Following the report the government started the National Program against Domestic and Sexual Violence. MWSI identifies two types of elderly violence: domestic violence and sexual violence. Domestic violence includes both physical and psychological issues. Between January 2002 and May 2008, 7,449 elders have been treated throughout the country. During 2002-2007, some 6,738 cases of general mistreatment were treated in the country.

Ecuador: Voluntary Retirement (June 30, 2008)
(Article in Spanish)
Teachers are continuing the process of voluntary retirement at the national level. Schools will coordinate to begin the retirement process in July. Teachers who choose voluntary retirement will receive a license with a salary for 70 days and a bonus of $24,000 if they are older than 80 years. The schools will give $12, 000 to those who have completed 65 years as teachers.

Paraguay: Warning about Ageing in Latin America (June 13, 2008)
(Article in Spanish)
In 40 years the number of elders in Latin America will make up a fourth of its population. Ageing will accelerate at a faster rate than in the past. During the last 50 years, the population has increased by 24%. The number of children and teenagers will decrease by 17%. The older population will surpass that of children and teenagers by 30%.

Canada: 'Too Old' or 'Too Young'; Stop Judging by Age (May 26, 2008) 
In this short essay, writer Brett Anningson explores aging stereotypes, particularly in the workforce. Sometimes we are too young to get a job, but then we become too old. But he points to a truism: We can learn from everyone, no matter what the age. 

Canada: New Rules for Aging Drivers Urged; Insurance Chief Suggests Restricted Licenses (May 9, 2008)
Studies have shown that as people age they are more likely to get in an accident. To deal with this public safety issue, Mark Yakabuski, the CEO of the Insurance Board of Canada, believes that the government should allow seniors to drive with certain restrictions instead of prohibiting them driving altogether. In Ontario, anyone over the age of 80 is subjected to a vision and knowledge test. Some elders are complaining that taking away their driving ability would be taking away their mobility. 

Bolivia: Opposition Violently Beats Elders (May 3, 2008)
(Article in Spanish)
A group of elderly human rights activists were attacked by juveniles without provocation who insulted and beat them. One retired senior said that he worked hard all his life and can’t understand such behavior from a generation a third his age. 

Haiti: Rice for the Most Vulnerable (April 19, 2008)
In Haiti, food aid is not meeting the needs of all the people. Haitian authorities designated older persons to receive bags of rice during the week of April 19, 2008. About 1,000 older persons, disabled and able-bodied, gathered in front of a social center to collect their supply of rice, under the watchful gaze of national soldiers and blue helmeted UN personnel. The high price of food excludes large numbers of the population. Vulnerable people like older persons depend on international food sources for their nourishment. 

Brasilia: Venezuela Proposes a Regional Meeting to Discuss the Food Crisis (April 18, 2008)
(Article in Spanish)
Venezuela proposed to organize a regional meeting of the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization to discuss the crisis caused by world’s high food prices of the world. It will take place after the High Level Conference on Food Security and the Challenges of Climate Change and Bio-energy that will take place in June (2008) in Rome. The food crisis deserves a very thorough and profound discussion among Latin American and Caribbean countries. Inflation threatens many nations in the region. Venezuela, as the chief importer of foods, has begun to suffer from the crisis. Also, Brazilians, and other Latin American countries who produce many basic products, face increasing inflation as well. 

Canada: Seniors Seek Flex Time into Retirement (April 15, 2008)
Shorter working weeks and flexible hours: that’s what older workers are saying would entice them back from retirement into employment. Some expressed hope to work full time, then gradually taper off to part-time hours. They would also like to have extended health care benefits, and, of course, more vacation.

Cuba: Who Will Work in the Countryside? (April 14, 2008)
This is a question that defines the growing situation in Cuba. Mostly older people work in the countryside. Although young people study agriculture, only a few really want to do actual farm work. Without a labor force, it becomes a serious question of food supply and economic well being for the whole country.

Canada: Canadian People Enjoy Retirement (April 12, 2008)
(Article in French)
Canadian retired persons are among the happiest in the world. Eighty-eight percent say they are healthy and 40% very healthy, according to a recent study. Ninety-four percent profess that they are happy--the highest percentage in the world. Young people in Canada begin to prepare for their retirement very early, when they are about 30 years old. Workers today are more worried about retirement than their elders, but still remain optimistic.

Canada: Aging Boomers Most Lucrative Market For Just About Everything (March 31, 2008)
Companies have discovered a very lucrative market in older consumers. They realize that someone turns 62 years old every seven seconds. And those making economic decisions feel that this segment in the aging field will result in sales. Car manufacturers, technology firms, health care providers, pharmaceutical companies, even a shoe company and a Canadian funeral home are paying more attention to elderly people. 

Argentina: Robbing the Elderly: Each Time More Frequent and Violent (March 28, 2008)
(Article in Spanish)
Police say that the majority of violent cases reported are in the Capital of Buenos Aires and the La Plata area. In general, the victims are women living or very old couples. Assailants killed fourteen victims, all over the age of 70, in their homes. Some died due to cardiac rest. The robbers prey on seniors due to their weak physical condition. Many worried elders are seeking help. 

Ecuador: No Wedding Barriers for Love (March 27, 2008)
(Article in Spanish)
Time is not a barrier of love. Mauro Ponce and Melida Quijije swore to love each other forever. They married at the elder home, the Guillermina Loor Home of Moreno. Provincial authorities, the military and the police were present during the ceremony. The court of honor, special guests, and other citizens were also present. No one wanted to miss the opportunity to witness this unique event.

Mexico: The Elderly Are Overcharged $4 (March 23, 2008)
(Article in Spanish)
Older Mexicans are complaining about bus drivers, saying that they don’t respect the elderly. Ticket prices on public transportation are: $3.50 for an older person, $4 for a student, and $5.50 for others. However, the drivers become angry when the elderly do not pay $4. If the elders don’t pay the $4 fare, the drivers refuse to let them ride. The author calls on seniors to report these unjust acts and take legal recourse against the public transportation workers. 

Argentina: An Assaulted and Mistreated Pair of Elders in the Town of Alta Córdoba (March 19, 2008)
(Article in Spanish)
In Alta Cordoba there has been a series of violent robberies and acts of retaliation against the police. During one incident, three criminals assaulted a pair of defenseless elders. Adolfo Tallento (96) and his wife, Clara Becono (92) were mistreated and locked in a bathroom. Clara was violently thrown to the floor and her mouth covered. While one of the criminals squeezed her throat, she begged him not to kill her. They stole 10 thousand pesos--their retirement money.

Chile: Increase of Demographics of Those over 65 Years of Age: The Community Worries about its Aging Neighbors (March 17, 2008)
(Article in Spanish)
The percentage of older persons in Chile will double between 2000 and 2020. Supportive programs in Chile are responding to this demographic reality. One program, “Vitamayor,” not only has creative ideas; it is listening to those of the elderly. They are contemplating opening a center with “la Fundación de las Rosas” where seniors can come and spend time in conversation with one another. The “Clínica Cordillera” wants to generate attention to health problems. The Department of the Elderly offers help to families with Alzheimer’s patients and support to people who receive little pension help. “La Reina” has created an agreement with the community transportation system. These are examples of programs responding with positive help for the elderly. 

Costa Rica: Older Persons Form a Line Waiting for a Room in Elderly Homes (March 16, 2008)
(Article in Spanish)
Of the 300,000 Spanish elders over 65 years of age, about 3,000 live in homes for the elderly. Even with the high demand, few centers are available, and older people stand in line to be admitted. The wait can be indefinite, with needs for workers expected to double or more. An emerging phenomenon in the centers is that the elderly are now beginning to provide care for other elders.

Chile: Law Against Mistreatment of Elderly Approved (March 14, 2008)
(Article in Spanish)
The Chile Board of Representatives has adopted a law to protect older persons. It includes methods of protection against violence within families. Until now, there was only a law to protect women, children and those who are handicapped, with no attention to those who were aged.

Guatemala: Elders and Solidarity (March 13, 2008)
(Article in Spanish)
Humans face aging in different ways; social, cultural, educational and personal attitudes shape the experience. We age best if we have an open and positive attitude, stay active, maintain social relationships and feel a part of society. Otherwise, we feel useless or unfulfilled. 

Guatemala: Women in the Maquilas Face Age Discrimination (March 13, 2008)
The article deals with Silvia Marina Grevalo Santos, a volunteer activist for the General Workers’ Confederation of Guatemala. She reports on the horrible working conditions in the Guatemalan maquilas (export factories). She is only 45 years old, but already is considered too old to work. She was dismissed because she fought to organize unions that would support workers’ grievances. The maquilas are notorious for working conditions affecting health and safety of the workers, and for discrimination against women.

Argentina: More Years are Probably more Happy (March 6, 2008)
(Article in Spanish)
A study shows that people over 70 years old are happier. Experience gives them a different point of view of life. Life has more meaning for them. The study shows that the elderly have greater emotional control. Adults over 55 pay more attention to the positives. This contributes to their happiness.

Canada: Older Persons are Working Longer and Longer (March 6, 2008)
(Article in French)
Canadian people are working longer and longer. That’s what a new study from the Quebec Institute of Statistics reveals. The employment rate for the people who are 54-65 years has increased regularly since 2000. Some reasons explain this new tendency: first, the pension system is no longer very generous nor protective. Then, the ‘new old’ people seem to like being active longer, sharing their knowledge and experience. 

Guatemala: Guatemala Aging Live in Poverty (March 6, 2008)
(Article in Spanish)
Over 70% of the elderly in Guatemala live in poverty. Almost a million Guatemalans are 60 years old or older. Nine out of ten do not have an income from work or a pension. They have no money for food or clothes. The main diseases they face are preventable, and their suffering for the most part is due to extreme poverty and hunger. 

Canada: Agency Too Busy to Probe Elder Care (February 22, 2008)
Due to a copious workload and major rescheduling, Ontario's Human Rights Commission has lost sight of its priorities and left elderly nursing home patients in a dire state of neglect. The Health Ministry and the Human Rights Commission have been brought to task regarding these unsatisfactory standards, and although it seems new legislation was brought into practice to prevent such negligence, elderly nursing home residents are still suffering from severe neglect and abuse.

Jamaica: Abuse of the Elderly (February 11, 2008)
A revealing article about abuse of the older Jamaicans presents horrifying cases of humiliation and violence. Serious bruises, broken bones and broken hearts are consequences of elder abuse or neglect. Jamaican society needs to address this issue and “we have to educate and support caregivers so that they understand their roles, what they demand and the limits to what they can offer,” concludes the author. 

Panama: New Paradise for Pensioners (February 11, 2008)
(Article in Russian)
Panama is turning into a new Miami. Plans for Panama to become a world tourist center are gradually becoming a reality. Panama continues to lures US retirees dreaming of a millionaire lifestyle on the cheap. The low cost of living, dollar orientation, international airport and a highly qualified medical service attract older persons from the United States to move to Panama after they retire. 

Mexico: Elderly will Study Accounting and History of Arts (January 15, 2008)
(Article in Russian)
Mexico is opening a university for those aged 65 and over. The goal of the institution is “to popularize the culture of active and healthy aging.” The university will not offer any official certificate of graduation but it will provide in-depth studies on finance, accounting, art history, computer literacy and other sciences. 

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Asia Pacific

Background Documents

India: National Policy for Older Person(1999)
The Indian National Policy on older persons attempts to assure the well-being of older Indians as well as to value an age integrated society. Against that background, the national policy is based on principles of financial security, health care, shelter, and welfare, among others.

Reports | Articles

Reports

Indonesia: Indonesia Against the Trend? Ageing and Inter-Generational Wealth Flows in Two Indonesian Communities (October 2008)
In Indonesia, the strength of ties that bind older persons and their adult children is often “a matter of considerable uncertainty.” The report compares two Indonesian communities and studies their ways of realizing intergenerational support. 

China: Placing Elderly Parents in Institutions in Urban China, a Reinterpretation of Filial Piety (September 2008)
China is experiencing unprecedented growth in the private elder care service industry. Since 1949, the Chinese government had required by law that children take care of their elder parents. Homes for the elderly who did not have children were stigmatized prior to 1980s. Now, elder homes tend to be seen as a privilege. The changes in patterns of filial piety are influenced by factors such as the one child policy, young adults moving away from their homes and growing financial independence of urban elders.

Asia: The Elderly Women in Asia (May 2008) 
Here is a must-read book for anyone interested in older women’s issues: The Elderly Woman in Asia: Her Roles and Position. Professor Joseph Troisi from the University of Malta and Ann Pawliczko from the UN Fund for Population Activity edited experts from the region reporting on twelve Asian countries. The authors, who come from the fields of gerontology, demography, social work and sociology as well as medicine, report that older women face increasing insecurity, due to changing family structures and the absence of a social safety net. Subject to poverty, loneliness, isolation and abandonment, the older women look to the State for social security and survival. 

Sri Lanka: The Impact of Population Aging on the Labor Market: The Case of Sri Lanka (April 2008)
The authors examine the effects of population aging on the labor market in Sri Lanka. Civil workers and formal private sector workers stop working around age 60 while self-employed workers remain in the labor market until very old age. The researchers probe into the possible obstacles for employment of older workers: inflexible employment legislation, high relative wages of older workers, and work stress and weak employability of older workers, among others.

Australia: Assistance to Aged Care Sector to Implement New Funding Model (March 7, 2008)
The Aged Care Funding Instrument (ACFI) comes into force on March 20, 2008. The Australian government will spend more than $3 million to give better care to elderly citizens, according to the promise of the Minister of Aging, Mrs. Justine Elliot. Also, she has said the government will spend more than $380 million over the next four years to assist elders. 

New Zealand: Elder Abuse and Neglect: Exploration of Risk and Protective Factors (January, 2008)
This New Zealand Families Commission project explores elder abuse and neglect from the perspectives of elderly people, service providers and representatives of non-governmental organizations. Researchers investigate what sets off increases in the risk of abuse and neglect and what can be done to prevent it. 

Australia 6,500 More Aged Care Places for Older Australians (December 20, 2007)
The Australian government will allocate $40.5 million to aged care providers to help them build and improve aged care services. Moreover, 6,525 new aged care beds will come on line to meet the needs of providers in Australia’s undersupplied regions. The government says it is committed to reform the existing aged care system. 
 

                                            Articles

Japan: Poverty, Pension Fears Drive Japan’s Elderly Citizens to Crime (November 14, 2008)
Petty crime rates, such as pick pocketing and shoplifting, have increased among Japan’s seniors. Masahiro Yamada, a sociology professor at Chuo University , has cited the current global economic crisis as the motivating factor for crimes committed by older persons. Although Japan ’s overall crime rate has declined since 2002, senior-committed crimes have risen within the past five years.

South Korea: Korea Highest in Elderly Poverty: OECD (November 8, 2008) 
The relative poverty ratio among older persons over the age of 65 in Korea was 45% in 2006, an indication that almost one in every two elderly households lives in poverty. No other country from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) exceeded a relative poverty rate among older people of more than 40%. Ireland trailed as a distant second with 31%. South Korea's high elderly poverty rate is attributed to the rapid transformation of the family structure and an underdeveloped welfare system.

China: Tourism by Elder People Booms (November 3, 2008) 
(Article in Chinese)
As the global economic crisis continues, Shanghai tourism has dropped sharply. However, a seniors’ tourist boom is underway in Shanghai. Recently, because of the lower prices and the more relaxed schedule, many Shanghai senior citizens prefer to take ships to travel to Japan. According to the statistics of the Shanghai Frontier Inspection Station, more than 80% of passengers traveling from China by ship are between the ages 50 and 60 years.

China: Community Invites Tutors to Teach Elders How to Use Computers (November 2, 2008)
(Article in Chinese)
Chaoyang District Yingze 3rd community invited resident professional teachers to teach middle-aged and older people how to use a computer, free of charge. More than 30 residents came. Among the students, the youngest is more than 40 years old, and the oldest is over 60 years old. The seminar, organized by the community, is designed to help older persons enrich their lives. Such seminars will be held from time to time in the future.

Australia: Market Meltdown Busts Baby-Boomers’ Retirement Dreams (October 31, 2008)
Australian retirees are finding themselves in a much harsher predicament than they were prior to the global economic crisis. Over a billion Australian dollars ($600 million US) have been wiped  out of the nation’s retirement funds within the past four months, since stock markets first began to plunge. 

China: 81-Year-Old Finds Love Online (October 27, 2008)
An 81-year-old man in Beijing has proved that a quick wedding and Internet love are not reserved for young people as he married a woman he found online within three days of their first date. A professor at the China Central Academy of Fine Arts, the man held a wedding banquet yesterday with a 58-year-old woman that he found on a matchmaking Website in September 2008.

Japan: Lehman Fallout hits Japan’s Vulnerable Elderly (October 26, 2008) 
The collapse of Lehman Brothers on Wall Street has undoubtedly impacted the entire world. Older persons in Japan’s Higashi Matsuyama region face especially grave financial hardship during this time. The social welfare council invested one million dollars of their taxes into Lehman Brothers last year, yet none of that money was recovered. Older residents must now deal with a shortage in funding for their essential care services.

Singapore: Not Just the Preserve of Hospices (October 25, 2008)
The Ministry of Health in Singapore has approved a pilot scheme to provide guidelines on palliative care for nursing homes. Six homes near the Tan Tock Seng Hospital will be selected for the study. However, nursing homes already face significant challenges ranging from a shortage of manpower to the emotional toll on staff charged with caring for patients with various demands and temperaments. In addition to training for staff, the nursing home will need extra facilities if they are to provide palliative care in the future.

China: China's Population May Hit 1.5b in 2033 (October 24, 2008)
The population on the Chinese mainland will reach 1.5 billion in 2033, an official revealed at a forum in Beijing recently. The number of people above the age of 65 is expected to reach 320 million by 2040, which will make up nearly 22 percent of the population. The elderly segment was only 8.1 percent of the population in 2007.

South Korea: 660 Seniors, Patients Go Missing Every Month (October 22, 2008) 
According to data from the National Police Agency, a total of 29,024 seniors and dementia patients had gone missing between 2005 and August 2008. "Although thousands of seniors are vanishing every year, the Ministry for Health, Welfare and Family Affairs, which is in charge of the matter, is unable to develop effective countermeasures," said Representative Lim Doo-sung, who urged the government to take stronger action to protect older persons.

China：300 Older People Singing Red Songs in Beijing (October 19, 2008）
(Article in Chinese)
Every Saturday, more than 1,000 older people gather together, enthusiastically singing red songs such as "China, China, the Bright Red Sun Banner", "Song of the Red Star", etc. The entire park is a red ocean of songs. "Singing red revolution songs really is a healthy thing," the President of the local older people community, Chen Yong told reporters. More than 300 of these middle-aged and older persons also organized a trip by train to Beijing to see Tiananmen Square flag-raising.

China: Old-age Home Workers: the Elderly Intimate Partners (October 18, 2008)
(Article in Chinese)
In Jinan, Shandong Province, the government has to subsidize the cost of home help to older persons. Seniors like this service very much. The local government purchases home help services to take care of the elderly. With 4,050 opening positions, home help positions offer a new career. The demand for home help attendants will increase as children are migrating, leaving their elderly parents behind. 

Singapore: Baby Boomers Want to Work (October 17, 2008)
According to the Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports, at least half of the 2,700 Singaporeans surveyed wish to continue working for as long as they can. Although fiscal need was one motivating factor, many stated that they wanted to continue working in order to remain “active and connected”. Many hoped to work shorter hours under flexible working arrangements.

Australia: Older Persons Give Up Your Homes for Young People (October 15, 2008)
(Article in Arabic)
A retired couple intends to sell their home in the city of Melbourne and purchase a large van to join the tens of thousands of Australians who choose to journey into the open country. Policy makers have called on a method to facilitate this process for older persons, encouraging it as a way to relieve them of the trouble of having home-related costs above their income. 

Australia: The Road to Retirement is Now Longer (October 8, 2008)
One in four Australian seniors is finding retirement at the age of 65 too costly to consider; instead, many are planning to work beyond the age of 70. For some older persons who care for dependent family members, living off of a meager pension is just not an option.

New Zealand: Older Workers Vital for Economy (October 6, 2008)
As life expectancy increases, seniors should consider working longer to sustain their financial security later in life. As experienced workers, retirees offer a seasoned and mature approach to the workforce and often achieve prominent positions in their career. 

India: Elderly Put Best Foot Forward with Arthritis Message (October 3, 2008)
The Dignity Foundation organized a walkathon on World Arthritis Day in Mumbai (formerly Bombay). There was a turnout of over 1,000 senior citizens who walked 1.5 km. The event aims to generate awareness and concern for arthritis, a disease that affects a great number of older persons. 

India: Elders Have their Day under the Sun (October 1, 2008)
The Pioneer Health Club has organized a function in celebration of the International Day of Older Persons in Manipur. The chief guest, MP Rishang Keishing, observed that respect, participation in decision-making and over-all care are among the issues that most concern older persons. 

Japan: Practical Fashion for the Other End of Life (September 30, 2008)
Not only are the Japanese prepared to address subjects which are taboo in many other societies, they even stage fashion shows to display the product. Adult diapers (or adult incontinence products), a topic discussed in hushed tones in many quarters, were the subject of a recent fashion show in Tokyo. Sales of adult diapers have more than doubled over the past decade, reaching an estimated ¥52.5 billion ($525 million) this year. 

Australia: Crisis Looming in Aged Care Services, says Productivity Commission (September 26, 2008)
By 2047, Australian seniors aged 85 and older will increase from the current 400,000 to 1.6 million, researchers say. Increased diversification in ethnic background, socio-economic status and preference will further complicate the existing demand for care services for the elderly. 

Vietnam: Dancing Old Age Away (September 24, 2008)
Vietnamese seniors are finding themselves happier and healthier than ever, after enrolling in dance classes. Older persons suffering from high blood pressure, diabetes and cardiovascular complications found relief by engaging in new dancing activities. Enrollment in the classes has been increasing as news of the health benefits spread.  Nguyen Phi Lam, a dance teacher at Gia Dinh Park has seen classes increase from one class of less than 10 people to 3 classes totaling almost 200 over the last 2 years.  Additionally, weekly dance sessions allow seniors to socialize and meet new people, promoting overall happiness.

Japan: A Japanese Company Today Unveiled a Wearable Airbag for the Elderly that Pops Out When They Fall (September 24, 2008)
The Tokyo-based company, Prop, has unveiled a wearable airbag aimed at the protection of older persons. Seniors are far more prone to serious injury when suffering from a fall, more than any other demographic group. The airbag, which inflates in one-tenth of a second, protects both the head and the buttocks from potential impact. 

India: Bangalore No More Haven For the Elderly (September 21, 2008)
Although Bangalore is considered by many to be the “Silicon Valley” of India, the downside of this growth in technology and economic development includes safety concerns for pensioners and other senior citizens. With children moving out for employment and other reasons, seniors have become vulnerable to crime. Many initiatives, including a Neighborhood Watch scheme and a phone monitoring system, have been unsuccessful. Dignity Foundation, an NGO, is running a trial system using volunteer help to try to improve the situation. 

Malaysia: R&R Centre for Seniors (September 19, 2008)
A rest and recreation centre for senior citizens and orphans built on 4ha (10 acres) of land in Ampang, Kuala Lumpur, is almost complete. The 2 million US$ complex is the brainchild of Lin Chua, the founder and chairman of an NGO called the AUTORR Foundation (Aged Unite to Organise Rest & Recreation). According to Lin, “The elderly residents with their wealth of experience will be able to groom and guide the orphans. Personally, they will have new meaning and a fresh vision to enjoy life in a significant way.” 

Japan: More Elderly Venting Frustration at Government Offices (September 17, 2008)
Even in Japan, where people are normally polite and respectful, bureaucracy and officialdom are causing older people to become angry. A book, "Boso Rojin" (The elderly running out of control), has been published in Japan, and its author, Tomomi Fujiwara, explains, "The elderly build up emotional conflicts caused by stress and isolation, and when they feel disrespected, such emotions sometimes turn into rage and explode outward." Many local government offices are asking their older employees to deal with elderly customers in order to improve communication and understanding.

Malaysia: Senior Citizens Welcome Move (September 16, 2008)
Groups representing the disabled and senior citizens welcomed the government's plan to replace foreign workers with Malaysians for jobs that are "not dangerous, dirty or difficult.” Initially, hypermarkets--especially the foreign-owned ones--would be asked to take measures to cut the number of their foreign workers and replace them with Malaysian citizens. However, the CEO of a local recruitment agency commented that foreign workers are preferred to locals as they do not take leave and can be called to work any time.

New Zealand: Elderly to Pay Extra Drug Costs (September 13, 2008)
Seniors of Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand, could be forced to pay additional fees for their prescription drugs. Currently, pharmacists have been illegally charging extra costs to their customers. Although a recent crackdown on such practices has attempted to rectify the situation, it may actually lead to even higher prescription prices for seniors.

Australia: Switch Focus to Palliative Care (September 11, 2008)
The Australian Christian Lobby urged the state government in Victoria to direct its attention to providing better assistance for the frail elderly and people with terminal illnesses. The organization’s local director, Rob Ward, said that as well as extra funding, there was a need for more palliative care education for older people along with disability and community care workers.

Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka's Fast Aging Population (September 10, 2008)
Sri Lanka has been named one of the fastest aging countries in the world. Although Sri Lankans hold strong traditional family ties, the higher aging rate may dramatically slow down the economy, negatively impact public health and pension spending and significantly increase the burden on families. The World Bank's report on Sri Lanka's aging population provides key policy recommendations on how to respond to the massive social challenge. 

India: Do We Understand What They Need? A Course on Taking Care of the Elderly (September 8, 2008)
Doctor Prashant Shinde started a magazine to address the health concerns of old people. There are currently 77 million senior citizens (over the age of 60) living in India, and this is expected to rise to 13% of the total population within the next 15 years. Geriatric care, however, is still a relatively new concept in the country. Dr. Shinde proposes to change the negative and inhibiting images of senior citizens into positive representations, in the hope of renewing an interest in elder rights.

Japan: Discounts, Perks Lure Elderly Off the Roads (September 6, 2008)
In Japan, drivers aged 65 or over were recognized as the cause of 102,961 traffic accidents last year--up over 3,000 in the previous year and more than twice that of the 1997 figure. In an attempt to reduce the number of accidents, municipalities in 25 prefectures have introduced department store discounts, gift certificates and other incentives to encourage senior citizens to give up their driving licenses. As a result, the number of people in Tokyo surrendering their licenses increased almost eight fold between April and July versus the same period one year ago. 

Japan: So is it Respect for 'the Aged,' 'the Elderly' or 'the Seniors'? (September 2, 2008)
While the United Nations hosts the International day of Older Persons on October 1, Japan celebrates its own Respect for the Aged Day each year on September 15 by declaring the day a national holiday. Like many other nations, Japan is adopting new words to describe people of certain ages, with the intent of separating “old” from its negative connotation. One positive aspect of living in Japan is that the age when a person is defined as “old” increases as the average life expectancy increases. 

Australia: Baby Boomers Want Alternatives to a Future in Nursing Home (August 27, 2008)
A Galaxy Poll survey recently revealed that Australia’s aging baby boomers are not planning to incorporate nursing homes into their retirement future. The majority of the people polled stated that they would only live in a nursing home as a last resort. Aging Australians wish to maintain their independence and personal relationships—a factor that the government, housing, and retirement industries must consider within the next 15 years. The population aged above 65 is expected to increase from 14 to 18 percent by 2020. An overwhelming majority agrees that the government should begin budgeting for their care accommodation now. 

China: Elderly Volunteer Full of Passion (August 22, 2008)
The 29th Summer Olympics officially ended with a spectacular show last week. For many Chinese people, Olympics became a part of their lives – like for 66-year old Chang Zhifu who volunteered for this year’s games. To become a volunteer, Chang began to study English and sign language from scratch a year ago. "Granny Chang is a minor celebrity here, because of her hard work and Olympic spirit," says Wang Hao, the leader of the volunteer team.

China: When China will Age (August 20, 2008)
(Article in French)
In China, there are 153 million people over the age of 65, representing 11.6% of the population. In 2030, this percentage should increase to 31%, meaning that there will be more old people than children. Traditionally in China, family generations live together under the same roof. This trend is disappearing and more and more old people are going to retirement communities or nursing homes. However, the number of beds is insufficient to accommodate the demand and the prices are very high. 

China: China's Rapidly Aging Population May Strain its Economy (August 11, 2008)
China's government leaders are trying to cope with the growing population of aging citizens. Due to many years of careful family planning, China's population is aging faster than any other country in the world. By 2020, China will have an estimated 400 million people age 60 and older. As the Chinese government continues to change and experiment with public pension plans, many citizens may find themselves relying on family for some financial support. 

Singapore: Crimes Against Elderly On the Rise (August 11, 2008)
(Article in Chinese)
In Singapore, more and more elders are targets of crime. Criminals usually target elderly people in the daytime when they are alone at home. They frequently pose as electricians and lie to the elders in order to enter their homes to check their electrical circuits, in the process stealing their valuables. Such crimes went up by 25% in the first half of 2008 compared to the first half of 2007. Victims of phone scams totaled 180 persons in the first half of 2007.

Singapore: 5 Companies Get S$500,000 for Innovative Products to Aid Seniors (August 7, 2008)
(Article in Chinese)
Singapore has awarded S$500,000 to five companies for coming up with products to help older persons. They include a robot that detects human movement in the house as well as gas leakage. The robot can also update elder centers on the senior’s progress via brief reports. These new products will be tested in 26 chosen old age homes. The 5 companies will also invite seniors to give feedback on their products.

China: Beijing to Have 3 Beds for Every 100 Elders by 2010 (August 1, 2008)
(Article in Chinese) 
By 2010, Beijing aims to have 3 beds for every 100 elders. This will amount to 68,000 beds. At present, the number of beds for elders stands at 38,000 and is insufficient for demand. In 2008, Beijing has invested 1 hundred million Yuan (about 15 million US dollars) for the development of elder home care services. It is estimated that by 2025, the demand for beds in care facilities for the aging will rise to 180,000. 

Japan: Government to Help Firms Keep Aged Workers (July 30, 2008)
The Japanese Government recently released plans to provide incentives for firms to keep workers aged 65 and above. The plan includes tax incentives and subsidies for companies that keep people older than 65 on their payroll. The government is also considering a reform of the pension system. Currently, working pensioners receive a pension in proportion to their wages. Critics have pointed out that this discourages the elderly from working.

Singapore: More Elders Finding Jobs (July 29, 2008)
(Article in Chinese)
Singapore is seeing an increase of seniors finding jobs in the area of security, cleaning and food industries. The transportation industry also saw an increase in seniors joining the work force, with approximately 70% of its workers above 50 years old. Two bus companies have increased the retirement age for their workers to 65 years. Most of the seniors cited financial difficulties as the reason for working. Despite this increase, close to 500,000 seniors are still without jobs.

Singapore: Ageing Festival to Encourage More Seniors to Active Participation (July 22, 2008)
(Article in Chinese)
In a bid to encourage more elders to an active lifestyle, the Council for Ageing will kick off the ageing festival with activities at six venues across Singapore. The first will occur from August 23-24 at Ngee Ann City. This is expected to draw a crowd of 20,000 people. Seventy-two-year-old Wang Cai Bao, who has been practicing drumming every Saturday at a senior’s centre with other fellow senior drummers, reported that he feels younger and happier when he is with his peers.

India: Senior Citizens Suffer Silently in Goa (July 22, 2008)
Navshe Sawals, 75, was forced to live in a public toilet when her son allegedly abandoned her in June. A month later, she was rescued from the toilet, unconscious. Her son will be charged under the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act. There are many other Navshe Sawals in Goa who suffer from neglect, deprivation and abuse. However, many stay silent, afraid that their children will get into trouble if they report their plight. Unfortunately only a few get financial help, which is inadequate. 

Singapore: Younger Generation Insensitive Towards Older Generation (July 18, 2008)
(Article in Chinese)
Li Mu Yuan, the secretary of Bright Hill’s old age home, reported on the lack of filial piety and family ties in today’s younger generation. He recounted situations in his old age home where family members who rarely visit their elders will usually appear after the Chinese New Year festival when the elders have gotten their red packets or after the government has announced subsidies for elders. In order to instill filial piety in youngsters, the Buddhist society and the Singapore literature society, will be holding the first of a series of talks on family ties.

China: A “Runner” for Elders (July 18, 2008) 
(Article in Chinese)
A social worker has gone the extra mile for 76-year-old Zhou Hong Pin from Cui Ping District. In June Zhou sought help at the social service bureau as he applied for his pension. Because he has difficulty moving about due to a stroke and lives alone, the social worker decided to hand-deliver his pension to him. The social worker gave him a card with a help number to call and offered to bring the pension to him directly every month. Now that’s service!

China: Seniors in Chang Chun City to Enjoy Greater Benefits (July 18, 2008) 
(Article in Chinese)
Beginning June 1, 2008, elders in Chang Chun city are enjoying greater benefits. Elders above 70 years old will only need to pay 1 Yuan to travel within the city on public transportation. Elders between 60-70 years will pay half price for first admission to parks and places of interests. Elders over 100 years old will receive a 300-Yuan monthly allowance. Those between 95-99 years and 90-94 years will get 100 Yuan and 50 Yuan monthly respectively. This is in line with the stipulated regulation on preferential treatment of elders in Chang Chun City. 

China: Centenarians in Jinhu County to get Longevity Allowance (July 18, 2008)
(Article in Chinese)
Beginning in July 2008, centenarians in Jinhu’s County will get a monthly longevity allowance of 200 Yuan. The county has 56,000 elders over 60 years of age. Eight of them are over 100 years old. In addition, centenarians will not need to pay any hospitalization bills. Those over 80 years old will have their registration fees at the hospital waived.

Japan: For Lack of Children, the Toy Industry Targets Seniors with Emotive Robot Substitutes (July 16, 2008)
(Article in French)
With the fall of Japanese birth rates, toy sales have decreased. It is estimated that in less than five years the number of elderly persons will exceed that of children. For this reason, various companies and the toy industry in particular are making seniors their primary target. For example, Sega Toys has won the technological innovation prize for its Dream Golden Retriever, which mimics a real golden retriever. The only difference between the Dream Golden Retriever and the real deal is that the former doesn’t dirty the seniors’ Tokyoite houses. 

New Zealand: Wanted: Elderly Workers for Christchurch Restaurant (July 16, 2008)
Senior citizens are encouraged to apply! Denny’s Restaurant in Christchurch, New Zealand, has recently put up advertisements specifically calling for old people to join their restaurant staff. There are many benefits to hiring old people, according to Neville Young, manager of the restaurant. Old people are more reliable, can act as parental figures to young staff and relate better to middle-age customers. Peter Townsend, Canterbury Employers Chamber of Commerce chief executive, lauded the restaurant’s efforts and added that older people are often neglected in the job market. 

China: Wen Ding District Helps Seniors Cope with Life (July 11, 2008)
(Article in Chinese)
Wen Ding District has a 10-year history of being an ageing district, with over 430 seniors over 60 years old. This makes up 10% of the district’s population. In order to cater to the needs of the old people, especially those living alone, the district has formed small units of specialized services looking into the medical, household, mental, cultural and recreational needs of elders. At present, it also has 18 volunteers pursuing this effort.

India: Woman Has Twins at 70 (July 4, 2008)
(Article also available in Russian)
A 70–year-old Indian woman has become the world's oldest mother giving birth to twins, a boy and a girl. The babies' father, 77, sold off his buffalo and burned through his life savings to pay for the fertilization treatments that allowed his wife to become pregnant. The couple had dreamt about having a son for all their lives. “My daughters have got a little brother, my husband and I have got an heir – that is all we ever wanted," says the mother. And what about the twin who is female? Apparently she will not inherit anything from her parents. Perhaps one day her case will figure in an Indian report to the UN’s Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women.

Japan: Sales Boom in Japan for Doll for Elders (July 1, 2008)
(Article in Spanish)
Purimopueru is a Japanese doll for grandmothers. The doll won an award in last week's exhibition, the Tokyo Toy Show. Japan is the first country that has registered more deaths per year than births. The ratio of elders to children will be two to one within 5 years. Purimopueru is considered a new member of the family that can be taught to talk and sing. The doll can learn up to 5 songs and say 380 words in a year, as long as she is hugged and spoken to. Creators believe that toys are not just for kids, but can provide a form of companionship for older persons.

Japan: The Laboratory of Modernity (July 1, 2008)
(Article in French)
Japan has asked four government departments to reduce the percentage of elder deaths due to isolation. The Ministry of the Interior, the Ministry of Health and Well-being, the National Police and the Transportation Ministry have taken charge of this mission but have not yet found an immediate remedy. Apparently local government has responsibility for assisting isolated older persons, it at odds with the other Ministries. Will isolated older Japanese fall through the cracks of the bureaucracy?

Australia: Hidden Inside the Home Crisis (July 1, 2008)
Australians face a housing crisis among their older citizens. The National Centre for Social and Economic Modelling estimates that some 112,000 households of persons age 70 years or over contend with “housing stress.” In this Southern Hemisphere winter, many older persons can't afford to heat their homes or rooms. Some face freezing temperatures in their houses. The Australian government leadership has to think quickly and creatively to end this life-threatening problem facing elder Australians.

New Zealand: Rest Home Abuse 'Saddest Thing in World' (July 1, 2008)
"She told me that she felt as if she was a prisoner in a prisoner of war camp," said Emsie Walters, Age Concern’s elder abuse coordinator for Auckland, New Zealand. Ms Walters was speaking about a lady who was told to get into the shower and was washed, including her genitals, despite being able to clean herself. “There aren't enough of us and there are times when the law does not protect old people because they are so vulnerable. They're often isolated," Ms. Walters added. A study undertaken by the Families Commission showed that older people who understood their rights, have a strong sense of self-worth and close family ties were less likely to be abused. 

Philippines: What about the old people? (June 28, 2008)
It looks like old persons have been left out of the Philippine government's new policies. Old people are often overlooked. Some are even forced to work to support their families. Felista Victoriana, at 62, scavenges plastic and earns 50 pesos daily to support her son and grandson. Her other children are unable to help her because they have problems of their own. Felista does not expect the government to help her. Many old people find themselves in the same situation. In 2002, elders from the Baseco and the Payatas, two very depressed areas in Manila, told the Institute of Philippine Culture they often went without food to feed their grandchildren or provide them with medicine. In a country ravaged by poverty, old people help the most, but likewise suffer the greatest. 

Singapore: Two Elderly Women Robbed of Valuables within 2 Hours (June 22, 2008)
(Article in Chinese)
Two older women were robbed of their personal valuables within a span of 2 hours. A 75-year-old lady was riding in the same elevator as a snatch thief when he grabbed her gold bracelet and pushed her to the floor. The gold bracelet had a value of S$1000. In another incident within two hours of the first, a robber stole a gold necklace worth S$80 from a 69-year-old woman. She was not hurt in the incident. The police have advised older persons not to wear valuables in public to prevent them from being targets for robbery.

China: Subsidy for Yang Shan Snow Disaster Building Project (June 22, 2008)
(Article in Chinese)
Yang Shan County of Yue Bei Shan District has invested 12,230,000 Yuan to improve the lives of its citizens following the snow disaster that befell the district in early 2008. Each of the affected 64 households will get 8,000 Yuan as a building subsidy. Moreover, 685,000 Yuan will be invested toward constructing and refurbishing old age homes, with an additional 495,000 used to build a block of homes for older persons.

Japan: Elderly Japanese Suicides at Record Rate (June 22, 2008)
(Article in Russian)
Elder suicides have surged dramatically in Japan, making up almost 40% of all suicide cases in the country. Japan's older people are increasingly concerned about rising health care costs and their debt. In addition, as the family structure in Japan changes, more people fear there will be no family members to care for them in their old age. 

India: India's Elderly Face Growing Neglect (June 21, 2008)
“I was bleeding all over. I've got bruises all over my body. Then they just bundled me in a car and dumped me here at my daughter's house," says Laxmibai Paleja, 92, accusing her grandson and a daughter-in-law of severe abuse. Figures show that more and more elderly in India are abused and harassed. Abandoned by their own children, older people are often left to die alone. 

China: Survey Finds Most People Do Not Know Their Fathers Well (June 17, 2008)
(Article in Chinese)
About 80% of some 200 Chinese interviewed said that they do not have a close relationship with their fathers. The majority revealed that they do not talk to their fathers about their life or work problems. However, more than 80% said they occasionally phone their fathers. About 90% of the respondents did not know the weight or height of their fathers. The majority claimed that they find an excuse to leave their father’s company if their discussion gets boring. Does this small sample reflect many younger Chinese persons’ relationship with their fathers? Or is it an anomaly? 

Philippines: Sweet Elderly Live-in Partners Finally Tie the Knot (June 17, 2008)
Juan, 91, and Estela, 83, finally wed after living together for 57 years. The couple wanted to marry because they did not want to die without “doing the ultimate act of showing their love for each other.” The newlyweds have eleven children who are all already married. Congratulations, Juan and Estela!

New Zealand: 'Age Quake' Will Hit Canty First (June 17, 2008)
Age quake describes the swift increase of older people while the numbers of newborns decrease. In 2031, the median age in Canterbury will be 43 years. Officials from Canterbury say they must begin to deal with the effects of this radical demographic change. The median age in New Zealand will increase to 45 years by 2051, a significant jump from 1996 when it was 26 years. 

Singapore: Age is No Barrier to Lifelong Learning (June 7, 2008)
(Article in Chinese)
A group of 120 older persons have completed a 3-month course on how to manage their lives. Among these, some graduates have had the opportunity to seek new careers, with some signing up as models or teaching. Content of courses includes knowledge of personal image, knowing the law and finance management. Course fees are reduced by 70% for the elders. About 10% of graduates find new jobs after completing their courses.

Japan: Japanese Seniors Learning Foreign Languages (June 6, 2008)
(Article in French)
Over 21% of Japanese people are 65 years or older. Many of them travel as tourists to the US or Europe. Others volunteer with humanitarian organizations around the world. In both cases, these young Japanese retirees want to learn or improve a foreign language before leaving. To respond to this new demand, language schools in Japan are creating programs focused on learning a practical vocabulary needed for travel. 

China: Elders in Zibo City Receive Free Legal Advice (June 6, 2008)
(Article in Chinese)
Seniors over 60 years old who need legal advice in Zibo City can now apply for a pass at the ageing office that will allow them to receive free legal advice at any of the 12 designated legal offices in the city. In order to improve its services, Zibo’s ageing office has also arranged regular face-to-face sessions where elders can seek help with difficult legal issues.

China: Insurance for Some Elders in Qingdao City (June 6, 2008)
(Article in Chinese)
The Fucai ageing group in Qingdao City, which encompasses 4 nursing homes and 5 old age homes, has purchased accident insurance for every older person living on their premises. Each beneficiary is covered with 75400 Yuan in case of accidental body injury. This insurance also covers accident-related expenses such as disablement, medical fees, assistive aids and transport for medical treatment. 

New Zealand: Rising Costs Grim for Malnourished Elderly (June 4, 2008)
Rising food costs have had a major effect on older persons. Just the thought that old people have to go to the hospital because of malnourishment is hard for well-fed people to imagine. Sadly, it is true. Often the old do not take care of themselves, underestimating the importance of food. Rising living costs have created an underlying fear among the elderly. 

China: “A Place to Call Home” (June 3, 2008)
(Article in Chinese)
On May 31, thirty elderly people from the Sichuan earthquake zone were transferred to an old age home in the centre of Yongning Province. Madam Huang Zhengzhi was one of them. After the earthquake, the 85-year-old woman could not stay in her old age home and moved into a tent shelter for 10 days. Madam Huang still fears that another earthquake will strike while she’s asleep. She sits on a chair clutching her blanket when she sleeps. After evacuation to the new home, Madam Zhang is slowly letting go of her fears and feeling more at ease. 

Australia: Elderly Agenda Falls on Deaf Ears (May 22, 2008)
"The single biggest group facing inclusion problems are elderly single women. They are among the poorest and most isolated," Professor Encel says. But in Australia, the writer says that older people are not really involved in the society or even politics. This article suggests that Australians and their government need to pay more attention to older persons.

China: Promoting Elder Care in Wudang District (May 26, 2008) 
(Article in Chinese)
At present, ten villages in Wudang district have old age homes which take in needy elders. In 2006, the district invested 2,000,000 Yuan into building a 2,200 square meters apartment, cum old age home. In addition, the district ensures that needy elders benefit from implemented measures in basic life protection. Rural citizens without land, employees and the unemployed will be ensured of their pension when they retire. The district also has enrichment programs for the elderly to enable them to live life to the fullest. 

China: Shibei District in Qingdao to Invest More in Basic Home Elderly Services (May 25, 2008)
(Article in Chinese)
Shibei district is home to 83,000 seniors over 60 years old. This makes up 16.8% of the total district’s population. In 2008, the district will focus on buying more services for home-based elder care. At present, there are 1,200 older households enjoying home care services; this number will increase by another 500. Meanwhile, 260 unemployed people have been retrained and deployed into the home care sector for the elderly. The district government has also invested 3,600,000 Yuan to provide 450,000 hours of free eldercare services. 

Japan: One-fifth of Japanese Population Aged 65 or Older in Rapidly Aging Japan (May 20, 2008)
People aged 65 and over now make up 21.5 percent of the Japanese people. Meanwhile, longevity continues to increase. By 2050, the average age for women will be about 90 years and 84 for men. The government warns of a looming pension crisis and “a widening gap between rich and poor as the country rapidly ages.” 

Hong Kong: Seniors in Hong Kong Embark on Theft Spree (May 19, 2008)
(Article in Arabic)
Seniors in Hong Kong are committing increasing numbers of thefts and authorities believe they must widen their anti-theft campaign.  So far, the campaign entails giving stern warnings to first-time elderly offenders in exchange for dropping charges against them

Sri Lanka: Our Population is Aging – Are We Prepared? (May 14, 2008) 
The population in Sri Lanka is rapidly changing. This comprehensive article provides a brief overview of the key reasons underlying the change and outlines the effects of the aging population on education and health services, employment, housing needs and retirement benefits in Sri Lanka over the next 20-50 years. If the government does not start preparing for significant population changes today, “we will be ill-equipped to enjoy our old age,” says the author. 

China: The Undiscovered Side of Talented Seniors (May 9, 2008) 
(Article in Chinese) 
A tour agency has recruited a group of elders made up of retired professionals to train as tour guides. These “Silver Haired Tour Guides” are becoming popular because they enjoy what they do, are able to share their knowledge and experiences of places with tourists, and have other entertainment skills. Many retirees today have held prominent job positions and possess vast knowledge and experience. Society should recognize their talents and help them to contribute back to society, thus promoting their sense of self worth.

China: Helpline Gives Free Professional Advice to Elders with Needs (May 8, 2008)
(Article in Chinese)
A social service centre in Beijing has started a free telephone helpline for the elderly to speak to volunteer professional counselors for advice on social, family, psychological and other problems. The centre began this service after receiving over 1,000 calls since April 2007 with family and marital issues making up the majority of calls received. The helpline operates on the last Saturday of the month, from 8 am to 8 pm, and the centre hopes to have volunteer residents assist the professionals in operating the hotline. 

China: Creating a Conducive Environment for “Aging in Place” (May 8, 2008) 
(Article in Chinese) 
Some 85% of China’s 1.49 hundred million elders prefer to age at home and many of these seniors are healthy and financially stable. The government is now looking into meeting their specific needs. The city areas will launch a network of eldercare services covering its participants. In addition, 80% of ru