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Elder Rights : World
Archives 2004
South Asia: Almost 5 million Persons
Don’t Have Access to Basic Assistance (December 30,
2004)
(Article in French)
After the South Asia tsunami, $40 million dollars are
necessary to avoid a public health disaster—says the World
Health Organization’s estimate. Three to five million
persons don’t have access to the essential means to stay
alive. Some priorities must be established to answer the
needs of the population. First, it’s important to give
medical assistance to the victims and to furnish them some
drinking water. Then, the situation of the homeless must
be addressed. Unsanitary conditions exacerbate the
mortality rate among the most fragile populations, such as
children and older persons.
China: The Lack of Nanny-housekeepers Impacts Older
Persons Who are Living in Cities (December 28, 2004)
(Article in Chinese)
Beijing – There is a great need for nanny-housekeepers
in Beijing. There are about 100,000 families who cannot
find nannies or housekeepers. Unlike other years, the need
does not occur at the time of year when many workers
return to their hometowns for the holiday. In fact, there
has been a great need of nanny-housekeepers in Beijing
throughout the year. A recent survey showed that the
number of nanny-housekeepers has gone down by about 1/3
compared to that of last year.
China: Family Members Give Sufficient
Emotional Support to Chinese Elders so That they Will
Have a Happy Time for the Rest of their Lives (December
25, 2004)
(Article in Chinese)
Lanzhou – Some Chinese sayings describe the gradually
greater distant relationships between elders and their
children in China. For example, “one dining table, two
different dinners;” “one door, two different worlds;” and
“one family, two different systems.” After providing
financial support for elders, many younger generation
persons ignore their older parents’ emotional needs.
However in the past year, things have changed, the author
says. There is more and more communication between
children and their parents. There are more and more
attractive “Elders’ Houses” where elders can enjoy their
lives.
China: There are
365 People Who are Older Than 100 in Guangzhou. The
Community Caretaking Service Will be Fully Adopted
(December 22, 2004)
(Article in Chinese)
Guangzhou – According to the Guangzhou City Civil
Dept, Guangzhou will fully adopt the model of
community-based caretaking service in 2005. The Guangzhou
elders will get various levels of helpful services. The
government provides caretaking service for those who are
living below the standard of living line and who have
contributed greatly to the society. There are more than
900,000 who are older than 60, which is about 12.5% of the
population in Guangzhou. Among the 900,000, there are 365
people who are older than 100.
China: Seeking
Elderly Mr/Ms Perfect (December 20, 2004)
In Shanghai, more than 165,500 elderly are single, and
about half of them want to find a partner, according to
the Shanghai Research Center for Older People. “The
elderly people’s attitude towards marriage has greatly
changed in the past 10 years,” Qu Hanbing, an employee
from Shanghai Xiyanghong Matching Firm. Qu said the
elderly are very open-minded and choose their second or
third partner carefully. Also, their criteria for a new
partner vary from financial reasons to sex life. On the
other hand, the number of elder divorce has also been
increasing. The rights of inheritance and financial
conflicts are the main reasons leading to failure of older
people’s marriages.
Russia: The Mayor of Yaroslavl: “There
is no Reason for Civil Disorder” (December 17, 2004)
(Article in Russian)
Elder Russians continue to protest against the State
eliminating their free access to transportation and other
services. While the official statement of V. Volonchynas,
the mayor of Yaroslavl, said there was no reason for civil
disorder, he sounds a bit naïve. Local pensioners have
organized mass protest actions. Thanks to their
organizing, the elderly of Yaroslavl have managed to keep
their right to free transportation in spite of the federal
policy. On December 10, more than a thousand pensioners
and veterans of World War 2 blocked the traffic on the
main square for one hour. As a result, the local
government agreed to satisfy some other demands of
pensioners as well.
China: Taiwan – Six Suggestions
Related to the Elders’ Welfare Were Raised at the
Conference for the Elders (December16, 2004)
(Article in Chinese)
The Fifth Taiwan Elder’s Welfare Conference was held in
the TaiPei University’s Alumni Hall. In the conference,
six suggestions related to elders’ welfare: First, to
raise authority level of the organizations in charge of
the older persons’ welfare. Second, to assure elders’
property management. Three, to look at citizen’s pensions.
Four, to consider the profits of caretaking services for
elders. Five, to investigate the housing policies. And
six, to review the “supplementary” policy. The Conference
raised these issues to promote the elders’ welfare.
Hopefully the government will adopt their
suggestions.
UK: Tories Pledge Free Long-Term Care
(December 16, 2004)
Tories have launched a new policy on long-term care for
the elderly, which they said would guarantee that no one
is forced to sell their home to pay for care. Elderly and
disabled people who financed their own long-term care for
three years would receive free care after that, the Tories
have pledged. But the Labour Party objects to dismantling
some regulations that govern care of old people who need
nursing care. What will the British government decide to
pay for nursing care of its frail elderly?
South Africa: Minister Honors the
Elderly (December 15, 2004)
In Cape Town, Dr Zola Skweyiya, the Social Development
Minister, asked people to care and support the elderly.
“Even more importantly, you have continued to strengthen
and keep families together under very difficult conditions
of poverty, diseases and underdevelopment," Dr. Skweryiya
emphasized in his speech. In South Africa, the percentage
below poverty is about 50% of the total population, and
due to HIV/AIDS epidemics, population has been decreasing.
Thus, the elderly is required to play a care-giving
role.
UK : Government Unveils Plans On Age
Discrimination (December 15, 2004)
In the United Kingdom, firms can now set early
retirement ages before age 65 years. However, with an
aging society, many workers want to work to age 65 and
have the option to stay on longer. New proposals to crack
down on age discrimination in the workplace were unveiled
by Trade and Industry Secretary Patricia Hewitt, and Work
and Pensions Secretary Alan Johnson on December 15. The
proposals are a key part of the European Employment
Directive, prohibiting age discrimination in employment
and vocational training, which the Government is committed
to implementing by 2006.
China: The Market for Products
Designed for Elders has not Penetrated the Beijing
Market Place According to Recent Visitors. There is a
Huge Potential to Develop Specialized Products for the
Elderly in the Chinese Market (December 15, 2004)
(Article in Chinese)
Beijing – Mr. Wen, who is visiting Beijing, complains that
there are many fancy, stylish merchandise products and
tasty food. But there are few choices for products
designed for elders.” Mr. Wen went shopping for two days
in the downtown bustling business area in Beijing. He
wanted to buy presents for his parents but he couldn’t
find what he liked.
Haiti: Seniors Try to Make
Sense of Their Finances (December 15, 2004)
Several Haitians seniors living in Rockland County, New
York, met with a local bank administrator to discuss their
financial options. Although the forum was about personal
banking, some of the questions raised related to
immigration and other social issues. Liliane Delaleu, 70,
“I don’t know what they’ll say, but I need to know why my
daughter in Haiti didn’t get a visa to come to her
father’s funeral.” According to the US Census, nearly
37,000 Haitians over age 62 reside in the United States,
including many who must learn about finances. Not easy--
much of this information is not available in the
French-Creole language.
UK: Elderly Prisoners 'Face Neglect'
(December 14, 2004)
A report called “No Problems, Old and Quiet: Older
Prisoners in England and Wales” showed that UK prisons
neglect the elderly in these institutions. Some 1,700
prisoners are aged over 60 and the male elderly group has
been the fastest growing incarcerated population category
for 15 years. Those who are in wheelchairs can take a
shower only once a month; incontinent prisoners cannot
access toilets at night. Certainly this abuse is a double
punishment.
Malta: Minority Groups March for Human
Rights (December 14, 2004)
Members of various minority groups-- women, disabled
people, ethnic and religious minorities, gay people,
children and elderly--marched as part of a demonstration
during the recent International Day of Human Rights. Malta
is a small island in Mediterranean Sea, south of Sicily in
Italy. Its estimated population in July 2000 was 391,670
with approximately 13% of the elderly population age 65
years and over. Especially for small countries such as
Malta, it is difficult to set pension and health care
system for its senior citizens because tax revenue is much
smaller than bigger countries. The Prime Minister spoke in
support of a strong family unit and stood opposed to
abortion.
World: UN Celebrates
International Human Rights Day, Stressing ‘Vital Tool’
of Education (December 10, 2004)
Noting "the enormous efforts still required to make human
rights a reality for all," Secretary-General Kofi Annan
highlighted education as the world commemorated December
10th as the UN International Human Rights Day. The United
Nations Development Programme, WHO’s HIV/AIDS Department,
and the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights agreed that
education is
key to making human rights a reality for everyone.With the
world facing an ageing society, human rights education
needs to include the rights of older people, not only to
protect today’s elderly but to ensure human rights for
future ageing populations. Today’s children will be
tomorrow’s elderly.
World: Little Progress in Hunger
Fight (December 8, 2004)
Governments set the goal of halving the undernourished
people by 2015 at the U.N.World Food Summit in 1996, but
the number of hungry people in the world has hardly budged
in the eight years since nations pledged to cut the number
in half. The figure by 2000-2002 stood at 815 million, 9
million below the 1990-1992 estimate, according FAO, the
UN Rome-based agency.The FAO report said the present
levels of hunger cause the death of more than 5 million
children every year — or one child every five seconds GAA
believes that the food Organizations should also assess
and publicize—and provide food-- to the elderly hungry as
well. All too often international organizations and
governments ignore older Persons’ needs.
France: « A Society Who is Careless About its Older
Persons is a Society Who Declines» (December 8, 2004 )
(Article in French)
After having resigned from his post on November 5th to
denounce an “unworthy health policy,” Professor
Pfitzenmeyer, head of the geriatric department in the
Dijon university hospital center, returned to his position
but continues his fight. For him like for the other
Saône-et-Loire geriatrists, the response to older persons’
serious needs is intolerably weak and ineffective. The
current situation cannot be sustained. Too few trained
aides are available to assist older people today. The
negative publicity around the “demographic crisis”
undercuts any substantial effort to deal with the real
needs of older persons. Both society and government must
wake up to this new reality!
Wales: Commissioner for Elderly in
Wales (December 7, 2004)
Welsh Secretary Peter Hain has announced plans to create
the post of a Commissioner for Older People in Wales. The
proposals will follow on the creation of a Children's
Commissioner for Wales three years ago. Mr Hain said the
planned Commissioner was likely to be the first in the
world. A draft bill will be introduced in the current
session of parliament. The Welsh Assembly Government has
welcomed the proposal.
Mexico: Mexico City on Edge with
Murders of 26 Senior Citizens over Two Years (December
5, 2004)
In an increase in violence against women of all ages in
Mexico, at least 26 female senior citizens in Mexico City
were victims of a violent crime since 2002. All victims
lived alone. Police said killers perhaps pretend to be a
nurse or meter reader, and that the main motivation is
robbery. The head of the National Institute for Senior
Citizens has distributed 10,000 door chains to the seniors
because “the authorities aren’t doing anything.” Year by
year, crimes targeting senior citizens are increasing
world wide. Government authorities should discuss
protection for seniors living alone before the number of
crimes increase.
Argentina: The Wisdom of the Elderly,
a Value in Reverse (December 4, 2004)
(Article in Spanish)
There is a youth-run dictatorship, according to this
author, that devalues the wisdom and experience of those
who have lived longer. Many prejudgments run amok, the
author says, and present old age as an illness and not as
a wonderful continuation of life in which one can return
all that was given. Additionally, recent studies warn that
in Argentina there has been an increase in the population
over 60 years old. More houses are being adapted to become
senior centers; however, there is a huge lack of personnel
to staff them.
United
Kingdom: Extra Care for the Elderly (December 1, 2004)
Recognizing that generation by generation, people have
different demands, the next generation of elderly in Wales
is requesting greater choice and better quality in living
accommodations. With close to 600,000 pensioners living in
Wales, there are now significant opportunities for the
property sector in the senior living market. Traditional
care facilities are often inflexible and do not
accommodate newly developed technology. Extra Care, a
self-contained and bespoke residence, is a new concept of
a property type that could provide a substitute for a
number of traditional property types.
Tanzania: The Cost of Care: Women and
AIDS (December 1, 2004)
A new Help Age International Report, explains how HIV/AIDS
erodes families and communities and exacerbates gender
inequalities. Information on HIV/AIDS bypasses older
women. Low literacy levels, language constraints and
limited access to written materials combine to leave older
women carers in the dark about the disease. Older carers
find it impossible to make money for food, medicines and
health care while at the same time care for their affected
adult children and grandchildren. HAI argues that
governments must provide direct income support, including
social protection measures, to older people and
AIDS-affected families.
Japan: Firm Develops Talking
‘Cuddling Robot’ for Elderly (December 1, 2004)
A Japanese venture business firm has developed a
45-cm-tall (14.76-feet-tall) cuddling robot for the
elderly. The robot has more than tens of thousands of
Japanese dialogue patterns of respectful expressions. The
robot is able to play quiz games and put riddles to the
elderly. Can a robot replace a warm, friendly, and
personal relationship with a human being?
South Africa: Aids A 'Burden' on The
Elderly (December 1, 2004)
The HIV/Aids epidemic and the problem of unemployment in
South Africa “have placed a heavy burden on the elderly.”
Now, many have to take care of their adult children, their
grandchildren, and assist them financially. “They have to
provide food, clothes, education and medical treatment for
themselves and the rest of the household.” Younger
generations weigh heavily on the elderly, particularly
rural women, who constitute two out of three elder
persons.
Angola: A Journalist Critics the
Negative Aspect of Older People in the Papers (December
1, 2004)
Journalists often caricature and stereotype older persons
in the press in general. Journalist Esmael Mateus noticed
during the National Meeting about the Protection and the
Assistance of older persons which was about “the old man
and the information.” Media contributes to this negative
view of seniors, while it depicts younger people as the
real actors in society.
World:
Rights of the Invisible: Older People and the Human
Rights Project (December 2004)
The unacceptability of discrimination against older people
is underlined in many international policy documents and
confirmed in the legislation of a vast majority of states.
But the world’s older people are broadly invisible in the
UN human rights project. Two specific areas where progress
needs to be made and where discrimination is tolerated
are: mandatory retirement ages and access to
education.
One way to increase their visibility would be to establish
a separate covenant for older people. This would provide
them with international recognition and ensure their
rights more effectively.
Europe: MERI Report:
Mapping Existing Research and Identifying
Knowledge Gaps Concerning the Situation of Older
Women in Europe (November 2004)
In Europe, every fifth person is a woman aged
50 years or more, although official statistics do not
view them as an independent target group. This
European report is aimed at increasing specific
knowledge of older women’s situations as well as
raising public awareness about older women’s issues.
Click here to access the national reports and
summaries:
http://www.own-europe.org/meri/
Lebanon: Arab
Population Forum (November 2004)
(Article in Arabic)
On the initiative of the Economic and Social Commission
for Western Asia (ESCWA), the League of Arab States (LAS),
and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Lebanon
hosted the Regional Arab Population Forum in Beirut, from
November 19-21, 2004. Discussions focused on
population-related issues, including demographic
transition. The coming decades will have a higher
percentage of working-age population, providing
opportunities for human development through investment and
economic policies. High returns on investments will be
important at the time of an increasing older population,
with needs for social security, pensions, and healthcare.
(Final report
available in English).
Chile: Pinochet Torture Victims
Angry at Pension (November 30, 2004)
President Ricardo Lagos wants to recognize state
responsibility for thousands of people tortured under
Augusto Pinochet's dictatorship. He’s proposed financial
compensation for the victims. He said that the state will
provide life pensions worth 112,000 pesos (£100) a month.
But some of the victims don’t agree and consider these
pensions as “an insult”. Today, the Chilean government
begins to confront its past human rights abuses; will it
also name other countries and the officials who financed
and assisted the torturing regime?
United
Kingdom: Later Life Love - Starting Again at 50+
(November 29, 2004)
It’s usual to think that when you are up 50 or 60
years-old, you must stay with your actual partner, become
a grandparent and let the younger ones profit from life
and have fun. But now the mindset has changed. Love
becomes more complicated and elderly do not hesitate to
divorce and to search for a partner on the web. They need
to reinvent their relationship far from children and their
active life. The only drawback is money: "There is
apparently more difference between the haves and have-nots
in this age group than any other, between the educated and
affluent and the poor and lonely trying to live on a state
pension and health, more than anything else, is the great
determinant between those who cope well and those who are
miserable."
United
Kingdom: The Battle For the Grey Vote (November 29,
2004)
Are political parties so much alike that there’s not real
choice for older Brits in the next election? In the United
Kingdom, the Labour Party and the Conservative Party began
their fight for the next Parliament’s elections and
concentrate their effort on the “grey vote.” The over-65s
are twice as likely to vote as the under-25s - and there
are twice as many of them. That’s why the social
security’s issue is the battle horse of the campaign.
Labour's Pensions Commission has already said a mix of
higher taxes, more saving and a higher average retirement
age is needed to solve the pension’s crisis. Labour's
policy of targeting money to the poorest pensioners has
also meant a big extension of means-testing. Since Tony
Blair came to power, the proportion of pensioners on
means-tested benefits has risen from 40% to 59%.
Angola: National Meeting on the
Elderly Starts Tuesday in Luanda (November 29, 2004)
The Angolan Ministry of Welfare and Social Reintegration
hosted the “National Meeting on the Protection and
Assistance to the Elderly” in Luanda from November 30 to
December 02. Organized under the motto “Protection and
Assistance to Elderly People, the role of the State,
everyone’s obligation,” the government attempts to make
the society conscious of the general situation of elderly
people in Angola. According to the United Nations
Population Division, the number of the elderly in the
country will increase to more than 3 million by
2050.
Venezuela: An Afternoon for the Most
Needy (November 28, 2004)
(Article in Spanish)
The Social Fund to Aid the Elderly, a non-profit
organization founded twenty-five years ago, celebrates
working with the needy in the barrios. This time
participants organized a bingo afternoon to collect funds
for developing some programs. This social fund pulls
together older persons from a poor area in the city. More
than a thousand elderly have affiliated so that they can
enjoy a variety of recreational programs. During the year,
the Fund offers entertainment and gifts as well as food
baskets. It also gets wheelchairs, prostheses, walkers and
clinical beds for those who need these items.
Haiti: Clamor For
Investigation into Death in U.S. Detention of Elderly
Haitian Pastor (November 27, 2004)
Human Right Groups are calling for the investigation of a
Haitian elderly man who died in US custody on November 3,
2004. The Elderly pastor was the uncle of award-winning
Haitian-American novelist and author, Edwidge Danticat
The elderly man fled Haiti after hiding for several days
from gangs members who had threatened his life.
Upon arrival at the Miami International Airport, he and
his son requested political asylum. At that point they
were arrested and sent to Krome Detention Center in Miami.
Authorities confiscated his medication for prostate
inflammation and high blood pressure.
Separated from his son, the elderly Haitian was denied
visitation from his family member. He died at a nearby
Hospital of pancreas inflammation on November 3,
2004.
Will the investigation reform these inhumane
procedures?
Russia: Citizens Have Handed in 24
Fire Arms During The Last Six Months (November 26, 2004)
(Article in Russian)
A pensioner from Gornomariyskyu region of Maryi Al
republic made use of the federal law,“On Fire Arms,” to
earn some extra money. According to this law, the
government compensated him for the 132 grm. piece of
trotyl that he kept secretly for 30 years.
This case is just one among some 24 cases during the last
six months in which a new law encourages people to hand in
their arms to the state.
Tanzania: Women Marrying Women to
Circumvent Violence (November 25, 2004)
Some women who face their husband’s violence choose to
flee and to marry a woman in order to support themselves
and take care of their children. That is the story of Bi
Mukami who was hit and left for dead by her husband
because he blamed her for the murder of their last
daughter. She fled the matrimonial house when she was
pregnant. Years passed and she got older. Then she decided
to marry a young woman to help and to look after her.
Older and young women who submitted to a husband or a
father’s violence choose to marry another woman to be safe
from violence. When a woman is married to another woman,
the younger one is expected to take care of the elder in
her old age and to bear her children, especially if she is
barren.
Charity Money Gives
Healthy Help to Poor Elders in Beijing (November 23,
2004)
Impoverished elderly people in Beijing may get more
medical help for minor illnesses.
Starting early next year, the Beijing Charity Association
plans to issue 5,000 charity medical cards, each
equivalent to 500 yuan (US$60), to the city's elderly
living in poverty, said Shi Lei, an official of the
association.
Great Britain: Mixed Reception for
New Proposals (November 23, 2004)
The British Government’s decision to opt for a single
Equality Commission spanning age, race, gender,
disability, sexual orientation and belief has been
received with mixed reviews. The new body will replace the
work of the Equal Opportunities Commission, Disability
Rights Commission, and Commission for Racial Equality.
Age-related organizations herald it as a landmark: “For
the first time ever, there will be a public body charged
with protecting and promoting the rights of older people
to live free from discrimination, prejudice and
ill-treatment,” said Gordon Lishman, Director General of
Age Concern England. Disability organizations fear that
funding and enforcement powers will be inadequate to
protect the rights of disabled people in society.
Argentina:
Retired Military Man Murdered in his Home (November
22, 2004)
A 66 year old retired major from the Argentinean army
was found by his partner, a 38 year old man, in the
living room of his private residence. While he was
suffering from mayor illnesses, he was found with his
throat slit even though the weapon was not found.
Without signs of a forced entry, authorities assumes the
victim knew the perpetrator. But in countries with
violent dictatorial pasts, like Argentina , it is not
rare for victim and tormenter to find themselves on the
same street. Because the victim was an armed forces
retiree, authorities are not discounting that the person
behind this crime was acting in revenge and taking
justice into his/her own hands.
Israel: 2005 Budget will
Increase Poverty (November 22, 2004)
The National Insurance Institute Director General Dr.
Ben-Shalom in Israel said that the government proposal to
cut employer's NII contributions by 1.5% will undermine
the NII's actuarial reserves and increase its deficit by
NIS 3 billion. At the same time, NII has prepared a plan
to “provide an equitable ratio between dues and pensions,
and create a fair model for social security,” and is
preparing a socio-economic model to predict how the 2005
state budget will affect social welfare gaps.
Russia: You’d Better Live Long
in Russia (November 22, 2004)
(Article in Russian)
On the occasion of 60th jubilee of the victory in World
War Two, the government has promised to provide housing
for all veterans of this war who have been on the official
waiting list for many years. It sounds like good news for
both the octogenarian war veterans but also for the State
Budget since very few qualifying veterans are yet still
alive.
Chile: The Double Weight of Poverty at
Old Age (November 21, 2004)
Experts now believe that definitions of poverty must be
challenged in Chile. A recent survey found that seniors
spend money first on food and second on medicines. The
current Chilean definition of poverty (the equivalent of
two welfare payments) excludes seniors who spend the
majority of their money on medicines. Poverty is not only
the scarcity of income, but also includes debilitating
illnesses, exclusion, incapacity, poor housing conditions
and a polluted, unsafe environment.
Russia: The Citizens
of Homutino Village are Seeking for the Defense in the
European Supreme Court. (November 19, 2004).
(Article in Russian)
The citizens of Homutino village located in the Chelabinsk
region are trying to protest against the illegal eviction
(expulsion) from their own houses. The Ural sanatorium
says that their houses belong to its property. But local
pensioner, Valeryu Syutkin, states that local authorities
took the appartments while their residents were away and
did so without any preliminary notification. Now older
persons and children go without any shelter. Therefore the
people of Homutino have applied to the European Supreme
Court for relief.
World: Landmark Report could
Influence the Future of Medicines in Europe and the
World (November 18, 2004)
Pharmaceutical research and innovation can best address
health needs and emerging threats in Europe and the world,
according to the World Health Organization (WHO), pointing
to Europe to play a global leadership role in public
health based on its history of social services provision
and social safety nets for all citizens. In many
developing countries, the poor are increasingly affected
by the chronic diseases that are widespread in Europe,
including cardiovascular disease, diabetes,
tobacco-related diseases and mental illnesses such as
depression. Moreover, the ten countries that joined the EU
in 2004 have additional public health challenges. WHO’s
report addresses 17 priority conditions for which better
formulations are required to avert public health threats.
The report’s recommendations could have a significant
impact on research innovation and policy, with support
from European leaders.
Québec: Report About Trends and
Problematics Noticed on the Work Place (November 17,
2004)
(Article in French)
According to new research, the recent studies about the
ageing of the Canadian active population contradict each
other about the future lack of workers. However, the
studies agree about the possibilities that exist for older
workers and firms. The new document entitled “Older
Workers: Opportunity or Challenge?” presents some
responses from the most important Canadian experts on this
question.
Honduras: Municipality to the
Rescue of the Elderly (November 14, 2004)
(Article in Spanish)
Some Honduran elderly get help from their municipalities
through three programs: integral care, technical
assistance and institutional strengthening of retirement
homes and senior centers. This project provides
mattresses, sheets, comforters and the promise of medical
attention and occupational therapy once a week. It focuses
on homeless elderly found on the streets in the historic
center of the capital. At least 50 persons get lodging
assistance from the program during every three month
period. Until the care of the elderly hits the national
agenda as a priority, local efforts are the only ones that
produce fast and practical results.
Chile: An Indispensable Brick
(November 8, 2004)
(Article in Spanish)
As we get older, less calories are needed than in our
youth, but the quantity of vitamins and minerals remains
the same and in some cases, increases. With age, the
digestive system struggles more to extract nutrients from
foods. If we keep a varied and balanced diet, we should
not worry, but that is sometimes not enough for the body
to function properly. This may occur with calcium, a
mineral that is often missing from diets. If this happens,
it must be supplemented so that bones and teeth can
maintain their resistance, but it also helps the nerves,
and the heart to function well.
Elderly People to be
Paid Allowance (November 8, 2004)
Hassan Khan, the executive director at the Fiji Council of
Social Services, announced that the country will increase
the tax threshold from $7,500 to $8,840 beginning next
year. This measure will help a lot of low income people,
including the elderly. Fiji is a small country where the
total population is only 826,281 according to the Fiji
Island Bureau of Statistics. Also, about 82 % live on less
than $31,300 in urban areas. Therefore, even a $1,809
decrease in the tax threshold will help low income people.
Not only Fiji, but also a lot of developing countries,
have various income ranges among the elderly. But unlike
developed countries, developing countries do not have
universal pension plans that support low income elderly.
But within 50 years, about 80 % of the elderly in the
world will live in developing countries. How to take care
of low income elderly in developing countries is one of
the biggest concerns of the United Nations.
Elderly People Getting Healthier
(November 3, 2004)
“Older people are healthier and are living longer,” a
report by Better Health in Old Age which was written by
Professor Ian Philip, National Director for Older People’s
Health addressed. As Prime Minister Blair said, “improved
services are helping older people recover from falls and
strokes more quickly,” showing that the quality of service
is very important for elderly. Surely, looking after your
health is directly related to keeping your life active and
independent. Healthier is happier!
World: Primary Care and Health
System Performance: Adults’ Experiences in Five
Countries (October, 2004)
When interviewed, medical patients in Australia, Canada,
New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States,
said they experienced serious shortfall in of safe,
timely, effective or patient-centered primary care. Among
these countries, US respondents stood out as the most
negative about their views of the US health system. For
example, one of five adults surveyed in the US and Canada
had to wait at least six days to get an appointment when
they sick, and 29% of respondents did not get medical care
from doctor because of cost. Receiving affordable and
effective care is one of our basic human rights! The
Commonwealth Fund and Harris Interactive survey carried
out the survey.
Russia: The Working Population is
Getting Less in Russia (October 26, 2004)
(Article in Russian)
According to UN standards, countries that have 7 % of
their population older then 65 are considered “aging”
countries. Irina Zabarskaya, the head of the department of
statistics, calls Russia a “double aging” country since
13% of Russian people are older than 65.
Next year, the number of those in the working population
will decline.
Ukraine: The Bill
will Fix Volunteer Movement (October 22, 2004)
(Article in Russian)
Hundreds of organizations in Ukraine are currently working
voluntarily to benefit the community. Many assist elderly
people as well as other Ukrainian citizens in need—a main
focus of their work. The Ministry of Justice is currently
preparing a draft law, “On Volunteer Movement, ” that is
supposed to regulate all aspects of volunteer activities
in Ukraine.
Viet Nam: Party Leader Praises the
Elderly’s Efforts (October 22, 2004)
Viet Nam, which is developing, needs all the parts of its
population to reduce poverty and other social ills.
Elderly have a very important place to contribute to this
effort. That’s what Party General Secretary Nong Duc Manh
said during his speech on Wednesday to a delegation of the
Viet Nam Association of the Elderly in Ha Noi. Indeed, all
the retired professionals can help the younger population
everyday in different areas: retired teachers, retired
medical doctors and retired scientists, for example, can
work to promote their values and participate in Viet Nam’s
development. Older persons need encouragement and the
country has to pay more attention to them.
Japan: Delays in Evacuation Orders Led
to Deaths of Elderly in Typhoon (October 22, 2004)
Delays in local governments issuing evacuation orders and
heavy rain that accompanied a powerful typhoon that hit
Japan recently caused the deaths of many elderly people,
according to the Mainichi Shimbun. About half of the 71
people who died and 17 people who were missing after being
hit by a Typhoon were aged 70 or over. In some cases,
elderly victims would have survived if local governments
had recommended that they take shelter at public
facilities.
Sweden: Age to Retire Could Be Now
70 Years Old (October 20, 2004)
(Article in French)
Like a lot of its European neighbors, Sweden has the
challenge of the ageing of its population. When the
baby-boomers retire, there will be some deficiencies in
several professions. For example, there won’t be enough
doctors. That’s why they probably could work until
70-years-old, instead of 65. There are more and more
persons who work after 65-years-old, especially more and
more women. But according to the last report of the
Economist Intelligence Unit, the situation is better than
in Italy, Spain, or Austria.
Singapore : Older Persons Abandoned
in Older People’s Home (October 20, 2004)
(Article in French)
During the walk organized by the “Muhammadiyah Health
& Day Care Center” for the Seniors to East Coast Park,
the Minister of State Balaji Sadasivan deplored the fact
that families “abandon” older persons. “The older person
should be in an old people’s home only if it’s the last
solution, because they have a better quality of life in
their families,” he said. But it’s not the case. That’s
why the government has to intervene. Different centers
have already been created, and two other ones have been
inaugurated this week, making for easier access to care.
France: Seniors: Some experienced,
loyal and motivated employees whose the companies start
to trust in them. (October 20, 2004)
(Article in French)
More and more, attitudes are changing about having seniors
in the business world. Employers no longer see a 45 year
old as someone about to retire; rather they see them as
employees with great potential. “Indeed, we recognize more
and more their different distinct qualities (availability,
experience…). This new attitude is very important due to
the aging of clients and employees of firms. Change is
coming and both seniors and companies will have to adapt.
Vietnam: Ha Noi to Host Asia-Pacific
Regional Conference on Elderly People (October 18, 2004)
Asia-Pacific regional conference on the elderly was held
in Hanoi from November 2 to 5. Some 64 delegates from 45
organizations located in 22 different countries attended.
The conference will focused on decreasing poverty among
elderly, poverty, HIV/AIDS prevention and natural disaster
control. Unlike developed countries such as the U.S.,
Germany, France, and Japan, developing countries face an
aging society without rich economies. Especially in South
Asia, Africa and Caribbean Islands, the growth of elderly
population is quite rapid. Not only these countries but
also the UN and developed countries should consider how to
provide efficient health care and pensions in developing
countries. Surely the world is rich enough to prevent
hunger and poor health among older persons.
Honduras: Solitude and Lack of Love
(October 18, 2004)
(Article in Spanish)
Family irresponsibility, indifference and lack of love
that characterizes some families makes their elderly end
their final days under the care of strangers,according to
this writer. All too often, according to this article,
families find it more comfortable to send older persons
into a retirement home than to be responsible for them.
When speaking of the golden years, everyone imagines
living in their own home, being part of their
grandchildren’s development, enjoying the progress of
their children and receiving the love of the entire
family. But social realities intrude. If relationships
with the elderly continue to be disrupted, the problem of
isolation will persist.
Chile: Tortured During Chilean
Dictatorship will Receive Monthly Pension of US$41
(October 18, 2004)
(Article in Spanish)
The people whom State Agents tortured during the Augusto
Pinochet (1973-1990) dictatorship will receive a monthly
pension equivalent to $41, which differs from the $131
originally considered. The Chilean president, Ricardo
Lagos, said at the time the commission’s formation that
the reparation to the victims would be “symbolic.” The
commission heard testimony from about 35,000 people and it
will write a report on their suffering. Even though the
report has not been submitted to the government yet, one
week ago the press reported that its principal conclusion
is that the torture during the dictatorship was a
systematic policy and not something attributable to
individual excesses. Not even Pinochet? Or those foreign
powers who assisted him?
Ireland: Increasing Retirement
Age Necessary (October 18, 2004)
When would you like to retire? At age 65 or 70? Even
later? At the annual UK and Irish Pensions and Investing
Summit organized by the Irish Association of Pension
Funds, increasing the retirement age may be necessary from
a financial perspective but also from a social viewpoint.
“People should have the choice of working until after
traditional retirement age and should not be penalized for
doing so,” Gerry Ryan, the Chairman of the Irish
Association of Pension Funds, said. Certainly, governments
should not waste experienced and healthy workers just
because of their age. Let’s give a choice
to the elderly.
Japan: Japan's Homeless Face Ageism
(October 18, 2004)
"Many of the homeless are desperate for a job. But there
are no jobs," Mr. Nakamura says. But companies never look
at the skill of the homeless people: they only pay
attention to their age. Most of the homeless are
systematically eliminated from society, and age
discrimination reinforces their sense of alienation.
France: Which
Evolution During Two Years for the Assistance to Older
Persons of 60-years-old and Older? (October 16,
2004)
(Article in French)
An October study published by the Direction of Research,
Studies, Evaluation and Statistic (DREES) appraises the
development of assistance programs for older persons
between 2000 and 2002. The study focuses on the period
before the APA (Personal Allowance of Autonomy) went into
effect. The Study showed that the development was very
slow and professional assistance tended to take away
people’s autonomy.
England: What They Do in Other
Countries (October 16, 2004)
How to handle a pension system is one of the most
important issues that all governments have. The Guardian
newspaper in England reviews pension plans in other
European countries in order to compare them with the
British system. In this article, German, Sweden, United
States, Australia, and Italy’s pension systems are
described along with their advantages and disadvantages.
Which pension system makes sense to you?
Italy: Definitive Absolution of
Andreotti (October 16, 2004)
(Article in Spanish)
The Supreme Court of Justice of Italy dropped all charges
against ex-Prime Minister Giulio Andreotti in relation to
links with the Mafia, putting to an end to one of the most
impressive political trials in Italian history. The case
became to be known around the world as “Mani Pulite.”
Andreotti, 85 years old, had already been absolved from
the first and second charges. Witnesses had accused the
former Prime Minister of giving out favors to mafia capos
leadership in exchange for votes for his Christian
Democratic party. Now, Andreotti is finally cleared from
these charges.
China: Who Will Take
Care of The Older Persons Tomorrow ? (October 14, 2004
(Article in French)
At present, family support for older persons in China is
decreasing and the issue becomes one for the entire
population. Now the government is trying to mobilize the
efforts of the public sector, the society, as well as
families to adopt international guidelines which may offer
ways to approach the aging population in China.
Russia: To Feel the Back of the
Friend (October 13, 2004)
(Article in Russian)
The 4th Congress of the “Russian Pensioners’ Union,” a
social organization, took place in Moscow. Rimma
V.Kostina, head of the Nenetck local branch of the Union,
tells about the Congress and the work of its local branch
in this news account. She says that the members see their
old ideals ruined and that they have lost their personal
savings to inflation. They find it very difficult to live
and to believe in something positive. Rimma Kostina
confesses that the Union’s main purpose is to help the
older members to believe in themselves and keep from
becoming heartsick.
Russia: Kirov. The
University for the Elderly People Launched on the Base
of “Znanie” Organization.( October 11, 2004)
(Article in Russian)
This unique case shows how Russian pensioners are in a
privileged position compared to the rest of the
population. In this case, length of life is the main
criteria for applicants to the University. Only people who
are over 55 years have the right to study gardening, law,
and Orthodox Religion (Christian) at the University.
Gov’s Needs Better Healthcare for
Elderly (October 7, 2004)
In South Korea, 8.3% of 350,000 elderly people suffer from
dementia, the Health and Welfare Ministry estimated.
According to another estimate, however, one out of 10
households has someone suffering with dementia but their
families hide the patient from the society. As nuclear and
double-income families increase, they do not have time to
take care of elderly relatives Unfortunately, the
government does not offer well-developed social supports.
Currently, only 3 % of those who need long-term medical
treatment due to dementia and stroke are in welfare
facilities. Yet the government does not have a health plan
that can help families.
Africa: Elderly People in Africa
Set to Increase (October 7, 2004)
The population of the African elderly is growing
dramatically, as the number of elders increase, an
equivilant number of youngers persons has HIV. More than
20 percent of the South African population is elderly or a
HIV patient, and this percent is increasing. But who will
take care of these “needy people”? Far more development of
services, training and research for Africa’s youth and
geriatric needs are required.
Russia: Biological Mass of Existence
(October 7, 2004)
(Article in Russian)
Every tenth corpse is unclaimed in Russia. The
forsaken elderly die in their apartments and on the
streets. Relatives refuse to claim the dead bodies of
family members from morgues since they have no money for a
funeral. The article’s author thinks that the
municipalities lack ways to enforce the Federal Law “On
the Burial and Funeral Activity” that was ratified in
1996. Some believe that municipal government reforms that
will launch next year will change the situation.
Angola: Government Runs Workshop on
Elderly Dignity (October 6, 2004)
Developing countries’ governments face aging societies. By
2050, 80% of the total elderly population will be in
developing countries where universal pension and health
care systems have yet to emerge. In Namibe, Angola, a
workshop on the “retrieval of the dignity of the elderly”
discussed the lack of access to basic health care and
other problems affecting the elderly. Private and state
organizations’ directors and representatives of NGO’s and
churches attended the meeting. Hopefully these efforts
will pay off for the future old persons in developing
countries
Russia: The Village Elder (October
6, 2004)
(Article in Russian)
The village Kremenie where only pensioners live is the
real pride of Stupinskyi district, Moscow region.
Alexander Ivanov, whom fellow-villagers elected as a
village headman five years ago, has turned it into model
village. Many feel they have realized the idea of local
self-government. Everyone in the village respects
Alexander Ivanov and even dream about his presidency in
the country. Apparently, the people who live in this
village oppose recent State initiatives to abolish
electing the heads of such local districts.
France: Isolated Violence?
(October 4, 2004)
(Article in French)
Professionals sometimes abuse older persons's in nursing
homes. In addition, personnel in speciality hospitals can
harm (both physically and emotionally) older persons
suffering from Alzheimer’s.
Chile: A Chile That Is Getting
Older (October 4, 2004)
(Article in Spanish)
The senior citizen (according to the UN, all those who are
older than 60) today makes up 10% of the Chilean
population, or 600 thousand citizens that will reach 3
million by the year 2025. There are two realities that
Chile must acknowledge in planning aging issues, both in
private and public entities. First is recognizing how and
where the elderly live. Unfortunately, senior centers in
Chile are mostly private initiatives and seek to make
profits. Second, media reports on the elders’ situation
need greater exposure.
Chile: Third Age: The Factors That
Give Quality of Life (October 4, 2004)
(Article in Spanish)
“Quality of Life” is a complex concept that involves many
variables: physical, psychological, environmental, social
and cultural. Income, physical capacity and education
determine what life will be like for Chile’s elderly. In a
recent study by the Catholic University, 49% declared that
their income was not sufficient to satisfy their needs; in
the lower socioeconomic status the figure reached 82%. In
this manner, 46% of the elderly believe they are not
respected. Among those with basic education, this figure
reaches 66%, while among those with a college degree, the
perception decreased to 36%. Similarly, with the notion of
being understood by other people, 74% of elders with only
basic education feel misunderstood, much greater than
those who reached university levels (52%).
Scotland: Pensioners Face Flu Jab
Delays (October 3, 2004)
Due to the shortage of the flu vaccine, elderly Scottish
people have been kept waiting for the vaccine. Currently,
those elderly who are over 65 with heart and respiratory
illnesses are allowed to take shots. In September, Chiron
Evans Vaccines, one of six vaccine suppliers, failed its
sterility tests, and this has delayed supplying enough
vaccine not only for Scottish but also for older persons
in other nations. Now, the issue of who is most seriously
in need for the vaccine has come up. In the future, when
the population of the elderly exceeds the number of
children, and if a similar situation occurs, who will be
eligible to receive a flu shot?
South Korea: Approaching Aged
Society (October 3, 2004)
South Korea now faces a dramatic increase of its aged
population. This year, the number of senior citizens over
65 is 8.7% of the nation’s total population, according to
the National Statistical Office. However, within 15 years,
the percentage will grow to 14%. This means that each
senior citizen is supported by 8.2 persons aged between 15
and 64 nowadays, but the number will drop to 4.7 in 2020,
and 2.8 in 2030. The author urges the government to
eliminate age discrimination in the workforce and to
increase the retirement age.
Tanzania: Government ‘Values
Older Persons Contribution’ (October 2, 2004)
The Tanzanian government respects the experience,
knowledge and skills of older persons in bringing about
development, says Juma Kapuya, the country’s Minister of
Labor. In addition, he assured that the government aims at
improving the welfare of the elderly. However, older
persons feel neglected by both, society and the
government, and believe that neither adequate pension nor
health care is provided.
Maltraitance à la Maison de
Retraite: La Dérive des Soignantes (October 2, 2004)
(Article in French)
The General Inspector of Social Affairs sent an
investigator this week to Arras, in Pas-de-Calais. The
Health minister wants to establish “a real exposure” about
what happened at the old people’s medical home, Pierre
Brunet. Ten days after the arrest of two nurses suspected
of mal-treating twelve older persons on the third floor of
the old people’s home V240, the investigation continues.
“We are collecting all the elements that can help us to
understand how this tragedy happened,” said Jean-Francois
Cros, director assistant of the Arras hospital. A lot of
problems in caring for older persons are already evident.
World: International Day for Older
Persons (October 1, 2004)
(Article in French)
The United Nations designated the 1st of October as the
International Day for Older Persons. Since 1991 this day
has been celebrated throughout the world. In creating the
Day, the UN really recognized older person’s contributions
to development and underlined this important demographical
phenomenon : the ageing of the population. Many
organizations work in Europe and elsewhere on this issue (
SEA, AGE…), and try to influence governmental policies.
Russia: The International Day of Old
Persons has been Celebrated in Moscow (October 1, 2004)
(Article in Russian)
More than 300 people over the age of 100 currently live in
Moscow. On the occasion of the International Day of Old
Persons the local government has given them some help
including food and electrical appliances.
Ukraine: Separated by Absurd (September 30, 2004)
(Article in Russian)
The house of 73 year old Maria Koval is situated on a
nameless street that ends in a barrier with the note on
it, ”Stop! The State Border.” The barbed wire of the
Ukraine-Slovak State Border now divides the only Ukrainian
village street that connects the country to the European
Union. This wire has also divided the people’s lives of
the village, Selmencu that is 18 km. from Yzhgorod. There
is Big Selmencu on Slovack territory and Small Selmencu on
Ukrainian land. The relatives and neighbors have to pay
for visas and to travel 100 kilometers in a roundabout
route to see each other. Is it nonsense or absurd?
France: Jose
Narayanin, From the National Comity Against the Violence
on Older Persons: ”Their Privacy Isn’t
Respected.”(September 30, 2004)
(Article in French)
Jose Narayanin, a teacher at the Institute that educates
nurses of Meaux (Seine-et-Marne), has investigated
violence in institutions. He’s a member of the National
Comittee against the violence on older persons. In this
article, he explains that the violence in older person’s
home happens frequently. He believes that the bad working
conditions cause the elder abuse. Further, he says,
psychological violence precedes other forms of
elder abuse.
Uganda: Govt
Trains Employees on Retirement (September 30, 2004)
In Kampala, the government started a new training program
for employees focusing on life skills after a retirement.
The International Financial Empowerment (IFE) is in charge
of how to plan finances for the future. “Our mission is to
. . . extend frontiers,” IFE Managing Director, Mr. Peter
Kimbowa, said. In Uganda, the number of people aged 60 or
older was 925,000 in 2000; however, it will increase to
5,775,000 by 2050, according to the United Nations
Population Division.
Uruguay: Switzerland will Produce the
First Mobile Phone for the Elderly with only Four Keys
(September 29, 2004)
(Article in Spanish)
One of the first mobile phones designed for the elderly
has come out in Switzerland. The characteristics of this
apparatus – called Secufone – respond to the needs of the
elderly: very simple mode operation, only four keys,
digital photos for those with memory problems and GPS
(Global Positioning System) to locate them in case they
get lost. Similarly, an elderly residence can be
immediately alerted if one of its occupants goes too far.
Additionally, if a senior suffers from an unforeseen
health problem or does not remember the dosage of his
medications, with the touch of a button a direct call will
be placed to his hospital or insurance company. However,
the price estimated for this phone will be higher than
regular mobile phones.
New Zealand: National Front Patrol
For Elderly (September 27, 2004)
In Christchurch, New Zealand, a right-wing group wants to
start patrolling streets in areas which have high crime
rates in order to protect the community members including
the elderly. Because the elderly in the town think that
they don’t need this kind of protection, this proposal
will be scrapped. Was it an election gimmick to sow fear
among the elderly?
China: Empty Nesters and Community
centers: How China Copes with an Aging Population
(September 25, 2004)
As GAA has reported in many articles, the aging Chinese
population has been growing rapidly. Now, not only Chinese
government but also communities recognize that they must
take care of the elderly. For example, the “assistance
bell” supports the elderly living alone. This bell has
been installed in many cities such as Beijing and
Shanghai. If an emergency happens, the older person can
press a button to request needed services. Also, in
Beijing alone, more than 300,000 volunteers visit seniors
in order to clean up their rooms, wash their clothes, and
give them emotional counseling. These “community services”
surely enrich the senior’s life. China cannot support the
elderly without these services.
Lebanon: Senior Citizens Face Their
Twilight Years without Government Help (June 29, 2004)
In Lebanon, there is no law regarding the status of the
senior citizen. “Not only are the elderly not treated as
‘senior citizens,’ but they are often deprived of their
basic rights as citizens and ‘thrown away’ in some home
for the aged,” Azzam Houri, a chairman of Dar al-Ajaza
al-Islamiya, said. According to Houri, there are 40
residential institutions for the elderly with 3,200 beds.
But none of them are run by the government. “Free and full
medical coverage among the elderly for instance, is only
given to those who were governmental employees.” The
Social Affairs Minister said that Lebanon must move to
public, private and nongovernmental cooperation to face
the aging challenge.
Canada: Canadians Happy to Provide
Care for Elderly Loved Ones, But Need Some Relief
(September 16, 2004)
According to a Statistics Canada report, about 1.7 million
Canadians between the age of 45 and 64 provide informal
care while almost 2.2 million seniors had a long-term
disability or physical limitation in 2002. The majority of
caregivers were family members though neighbors and close
friends were also taking care of frail seniors. 51% of the
informal caregivers answered that they needed occasional
relief or sharing of responsibilities; on the contrary,
less than one in five received such respite. Caring for
the elder parent is very tough especially for middle-aged
children who have full-time jobs. The study suggests that
the Canadian government enact policies that support
informal caregivers.
India: No Proposal to Lower Age
of Retirement, Confirms Govt. (September 21, 2004)
The India national government denied any proposal to lower
the retirement age from 60 to 58. The lower retirement
plan is unpopular. India has a rapidly growing population
of old people. According to the United Nations Department
of Economic and Social Affairs, the total population of
people who are 65 or over will reach more than 3 million
by 2050, the second largest number in the world following
China.
Vietnam: Language Still A Barrier
for Good Medical Care (September 20, 2004)
Language is the primary source to keep a good health.
Tan Le, a middle aged man, had been very depressed but
no one was sure what was wrong. One day, when Vietnamese
community advocate accompanied Le to a clinic, a doctor
finally figured out that his blood sugar was dangerously
high. “Before that, they never asked and he could not
tell the doctor what was his problem,” Smith interpreted
Le’s words. For people who immigrate into a different
country, it is difficult to receive proper care because
of the language barrier. What can be done for non-native
speakers? A whole world is looking for an answer.
Ghana: African Faith Church trains
Peer Educators (September 20, 2004)
The African Faith Tabernacle Church has trained 80 Peer
Educators to lead the campaign against the HIV/AIDS in
Ghana. Prophet Nana David Nkansah, the leader of the
Church, said that the Peer Educators were divided into
six groups for the educational campaign. The Church did
not encourage to use condoms; however, they emphasize
that married couples should stick to their partners and
to remain faithful. Mr. Nkansah said that this would be
their contribution towards national development. Among
the developing countries, elderly people are regarding
as caregivers for children and HIV/AIDS patients. If
this campaign succeeds, the elderly will regain their
own life. Unfortunately, there’s little scientific proof
that urging abstinence produces viable results against
HIV/AIDS; many stray from the fold.
Canada: Role Reversal (September 13,
2004)
Caroline Tapp-McDougall recently stressed out due to
intense careginving for her mother who had a stroke.
Although she is one of experts regarding the wellness of
the elderly, their caregivers, and their family, she
herself didn’t prepare for caregiving. About 70 % of
Canadian boomers expect to care for a family member in
the near future. But even professional elder care
workers might struggle with how to take care of their
elder parents. In this article, the author suggests
survival tips and the cost of care in Canada. You have
to take care of yourself in order to take care of
others. Please check this article!
China: Elderly Beijing
Residents Attend English Classes to Prepare for 2008
Olympics (September 7, 2004)
In Beijing, where the
Summer Olympics will be held in 2008, elderly
residents have already started to learn English. They
want to be good hosts by brushing up on their command
of English. Surprisingly, most of them do not have
prior command of the English language or even letters
of the alphabet. But elder English learners have
hardly missed any classes in order to improve their
English. “One goal of the Olympics is to create a
better social and linguistic environment,” a volunteer
English teacher, Zhang Yuting, said. It looks like the
Beijing Olympics will be very successful, thanks to
these ordinary, but very hardworking, elder citizens.
Barbados: Help Us Find
Elderly in Need (September 2, 2004)
The Barbadian National
Assistance Board (ANB) appealed for help to locate
elderly people living in “difficult” conditions.
September is the Senior Citizens’ month in Barbados.
This year’s theme is “Together We Work, Together We
Achieve to Make a Difference for the Elderly.” There
will be workshops, fun sports days, cake sales and
karaoke. The activities will be held on October 2.
Jamaica: Two Weeks of Activities
Planned for Senior Citizens' Month (September 2,
2004)
September is the national month of senior citizens! In
Jamaica, the National Council for Senior Citizens is
busy making plans for the two-week event.
According to the executive director of the National
Council, Beverly Hall-Taylor, the theme for this
year’s celebration is “Senior Citizens Building Solid
Families,” which is based on the United Nations 10th
Anniversary of the International Year of the Family.
The national celebration will start September 26 and
ends October 3.
Singapore: All new MRT Stations to
be Disabled and Elderly Friendly (September 2, 2004)
Transport Minister Yeo Cheow Tong in Singapore said
all new MRT stations will have facilities for the
disabled and the elderly such as lifts, ramps,
handicapped toilets, as well as the Tactile Guidance
System for the visually impaired. MRT will equip these
facilities at the existing stations along the
North-South and East-West Lines. Accessibility is
important to all citizens. Among older persons
accessibility to subways/trains makes autonomy in
daily life possible. How about your city? Is your
nearest station elder friendly?
England: Paper Is 'New Voice' for
Elderly (September 1, 2004)
The Mature Times, a free newspaper for the elderly in
England, just changed. Previously, the paper only
targeted the over-60s. However, the latest incarnation
lowered its sights to include people age over 50
because they are most likely to be affected by ageism
in the workplace. The Mature Times campaigns for the
rights of elderly people, such as restoring the link
between pensions and wages, removed by Margaret
Thatcher in the 1980s. The new editor, Tony Watts,
proudly says, “nobody else is doing what we’re doing.”
Australia: Uninsured Elderly
Penalised (September 1, 2004)
The Australian government said that they will spend
$450 million to support affordable private health
insurance for elder citizens. However, Jeremy Temple
at the ANU said the Lifetime Health Cover penalises
people who did not buy insurance before July 2000.
According to his analysis, a person aged 68 who wants
to buy comprehensive hospital cover for the first time
will pay $1436.50 a year even after the 35% rebate. On
the other hand, a 68-year-old who already bought
insurance before July 2000 will pay only $845 a year
for the same policy. “These reforms benefited people
who could afford to buy health insurance in that
one-year window, and those who could not were left
behind in the public hospital queue,” he argued. If
the government spends $450 million, it should give
wise consideration to serving the elderly, not
enriching private health insurance companies.
Scotland:
Elderly Teacher Overwhelmed by Response to Adoption
Advert (August 31, 2004)
A 79-year-old retired teacher put himself up for
adoption after suffering the loss of his wife twelve
years ago; he promised to aid the budget of the adopting
family. The number of responses has been overwhelming
but point to an issue on a larger scale:
Italy
’s traditional extended
families are disintegrating. In recent years, as the
divorce rate rises and families become more mobile,
elderly relatives are frequently left on their own. This
professor’s attempt to have dialog, contact and
relationships with society is not an isolated challenge.
Rather, it is one that rises as a natural response to
the demographic dimensions – with lower birth rates and
parallel reduction in mortality, there is an explosion
in the elderly demographic that requires physical and
mental health, economic growth and social contact issues
to be solved.
Ukraine: “The Song of the Year”
is about the Illusion of Prosperity (August 27,
2004)
(Article in Russian)
Maria Amvrosievna, who is almost 80, is only one of
many other miserable Ukrainian elderly who instead of
enjoying a deserved rest after a long working life has
to adapt herself to a new life starting everything
from scratch. She talks about how she learned to
resort to various tricks in order not to live in
abject poverty.
Germany: Bed Sores Cause 10 000
Nursing Home Deaths (August 27, 2004)
A social advocacy group claimed that infected bed
sores are responsible for an estimated 10,000 deaths
at German nursing homes. According to the group’s
findings on autopsies of 12,000 corpses at Hanover
University Medical School, about 14% of those bodies
exhibited signs of bed-sore infections. But a medical
school spokesperson said the group had “exaggerated”
the situation because there is no study showing that
bed sores are fatal. However, one thing that we can
say from this news is that the quality of care was
very poor. Although bed sores may not kill people, the
poor condition of hospital care might kill them
instead.
Pakistan: Relief Package for
Senior Citizens of Pakistan Aired (August 26, 2004)
The Prime Minister, Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain, has
approved a special treatment program for senior
citizens at the railway stations, airports, hospitals
and banks. Due to the weak health conditions of older
persons, they have a difficult time standing in long
lines and waiting their turn. Now, at the big railway
stations, large hospitals and the main branches of the
banks, separate windows are set up for the senior
people without extra fees. Also, Allama Iqbal Open
University will offer distant learning courses for
meeting the challenges of old age and offer
moral education to the society to respect and care the
elderly. This package will help to improve the quality
of life of elder Pakistanis.
South Korea: Korean Elderly Live
Happier in New York than in Korea (August 25, 2004)
Professor Lee Ju-il at the Hallim Institute of Aging
Society figured out that Korean elderly in New York
live happier than those in Korea despite the language
and cultural differences. He collected data from
people ages 60 or over in Korea (1,322 people) and New
York (254 people). The significant difference revolves
around Korean New Yorkers knowing that the public
takes responsibility when they are sick, while 56.5 %
of Koreans said their children should take care of
them. The author said he reckoned “various welfare
systems supported by the government is the most
important factor for happiness.”
China : China
Faces Aging Dilemma (August 23, 2004)
China , the world’s most populous
county, is now the world’s most rapidly aging nation.
The National Population and Family Planning Commission
predicts that the population of 65 or older will surge
to 24 % by 2050. This means that
China will have 400 million
elderly over 65 in 50 years. This rapid aging is
rivaled only by Japan , its Asian neighbor. However,
unlike Japan
which had already well developed before it faced to
the aging society, China
will experience the rapid aging while it is still
under developed economically. Also, because of the
family-planning policy, a middle-aged Chinese couple
has to support both of their elderly parents. Before
aging crisis attacks the nation, Chinese government
needs to maintain its safety net for the elderly.
Canada: Is 65 Just a Number?
(August 21, 2004)
If you were told, “You can’t work here because you
are 65 years old,” what would you think? But it is
perfectly legal to say so in Ontario, Canada,
because the protection against age discrimination
ends at 65 under the Ontario Human Rights Code.
Recently, the government tried to change the
mandatory retirement law despite the fact that many
Canadians retires at age 61. “If you hit the magic
age of 65 and you are still able to make a
contribution and you want to, shouldn’t you have the
choice to do that?” Labor Minister Chris Bentley
emphasized. However, the list of questions such as
how long employers should let elder employees work
even though they have trouble with technology or the
pace of work, or how to adjust pension plans to
seniors who keep working over 65 are piled up, too.
But it’s worth looking at in depth!
New Zealand: 'Cheaper' Doctors
Push Up Prices (August 20, 2004)
Elderly New Zealanders are now paying more at clinics
because of the Government’s new “low cost” health
plan! Health Ministry papers reported that
unsubsidized fees for patients aged over 64 have
increased by nearly 12% since the new plan started.
The new health plan, PHO system, allows doctors to
claim bigger state subsidies in exchange for accepting
new Government demands over patient care. However,
fees were higher than those at clinics which were not
in a PHO while costs were lowest in low-income areas.
The average GP fees for adults without a community
services card are: $17.20 at PHOs in poor areas; $43
at PHOs in other areas; $40.10 at non-PHO clinics.
Argentina:
Your Mother's Life is Threatened: Give Us $250
Thousand Pesos (August 19, 2004)
(Article in Spanish)
An elderly woman was violently kidnapped from her
home at 4:30 in the morning. Her daughter has asked
government authorities for help, as she does not
have the means to pay the ransom. The police have
stated that the only possible reasons for such an
act are personal revenge or extortion between
narcotic gangs. However, the daughter assures that
no family member is involved in such activities.
Meanwhile, this elderly woman is still kidnapped
without any news about her condition.
Ireland: Smoking Ban Causing
Despair, Claims TD ( August 19, 2004 )
In Ireland
, smoking ban causes “a negative
impact on people’s social activities and is leading to
despair,” the Dublin North Central TD claimed. Because
of the ban, elderly pensioners were forced to sit at
home to smoke, and elderly men who smoke pipes were
excluded from bars and restaurants. So, how do elderly
smokers socialize themselves? “The way forward is to
designate rooms in each pub with tables and chairs for
smokers without stuff,” the Dublin North Central TD
argued. “Then, everyone’s rights are respected and
accommodated.”
England: Home
Share Idea for Elderly in Social Care Shake-Up
( August 19,
2004 )
In England
, ministers discuss a
house-sharing scheme of the elderly people and young
jobseekers. Under this plan, lonely pensioners who live
in large homes are asked to share their spare room with
younger people. In return, the jobseeker are asked to
help daily routine work such as shopping and cleaning
while also asked to offer company and support. This plan
would support the seniors in
London and the sough east
in particular because of the high rent of these areas.
England: Plan To Free Up City Beds
(August 18, 2004)
In England, more than 4,000 people aged over 75 occupy
hospital beds on any given day although they are fit to
leave. The National Audit Office reported if those
seniors continue to stay in a hospital, other
much-needed patients are unable to hospitalize to
receive proper care. Therefore, city hospital bosses
enact the new policy that elderly patients in a hospital
must move out within 6 business days to a long-term care
facility. Under the new system, senior patients who are
well enough to leave the hospital have to find home or
accept an interim placement from social services.
However, Martin Rogers, director of Age Concern worried
about the effect on the elderly patients. Moving into
long-term care is a traumatic decision for the elderly,
and each senior patient has different
circumstances.
Australia : Retirees Face GST
Uncertainty (
August 12, 2004 )
The Federal Government’s goods and services tax
attack the self-funded retirees! In 1999, the minister
for aged care, Senator Bronwyn Bishop, said that “when
you are in a residential facility, you are in a facility
which is GST-free.” However, lobby groups are now
concerning that services such as washing, cleaning and
support in retirement villages might be taxed for the
elderly people who live in residential facility. Some
aged-care facilities already started to collect the GST
to avoid penalties if ruling becomes law. But many
residents are not able to pay GST which estimated from
$80 to $100 per month. If the GST is regulated,
residents may be forced with the decision to sell up and
move into a government funded hostel, Charles Mc Donald
from the Retirement Village Association said.
England: Elderly Neglected by Aid
Response in Darfur (August 11,2004)
Help the Aged, a British aid agency, announced that they
are going to help the elderly in Sudan’s blighted Darfur
region. “Poor shelter, lack of access to health,
sanitation and food exacerbates older people’s
vulnerability to health problems and survival,” the
charity emphasized. The United Nations says that
conflict in Darfur has claimed about 50,000 lives and
uprooted 1.2 million African villagers who have fled
from a campaign of killing and looting by Arab militias.
A Help the Aged international consultant, Fergus Boyle,
said that they will protect older people’s rights by
embarking on advocacy work with other aid agencies.
Germany: Cops Probe 80 deaths
Involving Male Nurse (August 6, 2004)
In Germany, police arrested a 25 year old male nurse
accused of killing 10 older persons. German police
investigating the caseare also looking at 70 other
possible killings by the same person. The killer
reportedly committed the crime to relieve the patients
from their pain. Large amounts of lethal injections
administered by the nurse were the modus operandi.
Malaysia: Dad, Daughter Graduate
Together (August 6, 2004)
Lee Nai Loo always wanted to go to college to gain
knowledge. His dream was finally accomplished when he
received his Masters in Educational Psychology at the
age of 58. It was a special moment for both father and
daughter Hooi Ling who also graduated with a Masters in
Pharmacy at the same time. Numerous Malaysian elders
like Lee Nai Loo are going back to universities, be it
for professional or personal reasons. They say they want
to improve their quality of life.
Singapore: Aunty Squad Helps Out For A
Small Fee (August 5, 2004)
A Singaporean organization, Aunty and Aunties Unlimited,
has adopted an innovative approach to meet the needs of
their community. The organization is in need of full
time, stay at home moms in Pasir Ris Zones 12 to 14 to
provide services to families who are unable to take care
of themselves or others. Services offered range from
ironing to providing respite care for caregivers of
older persons and infants. The aunties charge about RM22
for an hour of housekeeping chores. This approach is
partly funded via the Social Enterprise Fund set up by
the Community Development and Sports Ministry.
China: Beauty Contest For Senior
Citizens (August 5, 2004)
The Shanghai Foreign Exchange Centre for Aging will hold
a one of a kind beauty contest in the whole world. The
China Beauty of the Elderly Contest is open to all
Chinese citizens over the age of 55. Contestants will be
judged on health, cognitive and attitude towards life
and accomplishments. Gui Shixin, vice-chairman of the
Shanghai Research Centre on Aging, has some reservations
about the theatricality of “healthiness.”
South Africa: Government
Intensifies Law to Protect the Elderly (August 3,
2004)
South Africa’s Select Committee on Social Services is
eagerly working to create legislation to protect the
rights of older persons. The new law would also
recognize the financial and support needs of aged
caregivers of young children whose parents have perished
to HIV/AIDS. The current Aged Persons Act of 1967 later
amended in 1999 is outdated and does not address the
current needs of older persons. Nomathemba Kela, Chief
Director of Welfare Transformation Services in the
Department of Social Development welcomes this change
and reports it would benefit 3.3 million older persons
over the age of 60. 63% of the 3.3 million older persons
are women.
China: Amid China’s Boom, No Helping Hand For Young
Qingming (August 1, 2004)
Young Qingming, an 18-year-old talented high school
student, was found dead at a railroad depot at the
beginning of June. Apparently feeling desperate, he
killed himself, after being told by his teacher that he
could not take a college entrance exam unless he paid
$80 fee. Qingming’s death reveals a deeply-rooted
problem that contemporary China faces. While the country
is reported as the world’s fastest economy, the gap
between rich and poor is dramatically increasing. Due to
World Bank pressures, the government has been forced to
privatize many previous government programs such as
medical, pension and other social welfare. With
privatization, the better off become rich and the poor
get even poorer. Peasant farmers in rural areas do not
enjoy the same benefits that support those in urban
areas. This sad story of the grandparents’ loss of a
talented child makes one yearn for a more egalitarian
society.
Australia: Work! --- It Won’t Kill
You (July 31, 2004)
Prime Minister John Howard continues to work on past the
retirement age. In Australia, people start to receive
retirement benefits such as seniors healthcare card,
transport concessions and discounts on utility bills at
age 65 for men and at age 62 for women. Also, people are
able to access to the early retirement benefit at age 55
generally. However, the Howard Government began rolling
out financial incentives aimed at persuading people to
stay in the workforce beyond age 65. In fact, one
scholar found out that the risk of death among age 65
and over declined by about 9 % for each year if they
continued working. In addition, social networks and
mental wellbeing are good reasons for remaining in the
workforce beyond retirement. Would you prefer to work
longer?
The Role and Place of Women in
Sub-Saharan African Societies (July 30, 2004)
Women in Sub-Saharan Africa represent some of the
poorest, most socially oppressed in the world. The
elderly are no exception. Despite obstacles that they
face as a group, African women continue to fulfill roles
as mothers, spouses, peacekeepers and educators.
Economic and social development in Sub-Saharan Africa
cannot take place independent of women and the elderly
and, to some degree, it begins with women.
India: Ensure Rights Of Elderly:
Supreme Court (July 26, 2004)
Seeking the protection and enforcement of the rights of
senior citizens, the Supreme Court of India has issued a
petition to the federal governments in Delhi and Uttar
Pradesh. While the elderly population of India is
estimated to reach 326 million by 2050, policies and
programs for the protection of the elderly, both at the
national and state levels, are still “inadequate” and
“remain on paper.” Rights of older persons pursued to be
implemented in the Supreme Court petition include the
right to life, to dignity, and to equality. Counsel S.
Muralidhar brought the case to the Court on behalf of
the elderly.
South Korea: Many Retirees Turns Into
Industrial Spies (July 21, 2004)
Retired employees, it is claimed, do international
espionage, especially the leakage of highly-secured
information, according to the South Korean government.
The International Cooperation Agency for Korea IT,
almost 20% of the local high-tech firms in South Korea
have suffered tangible damages so far, due to technology
leakages to foreign countries. Maybe it’s time for a
little more investigation for facts rather than accusing
retired workers.
Guatemala:
Guatemalans Commemorate Massacre Victims (July 20,
2004)
Guatemalans continue to pay tribute to the memories of
184 people, mostly elderly, women and children, who
died in a massacre 22 years ago in the small village
of Plan De Sanchez. Buenaventura Manuel, who survived
miraculously but lost his grandmother, mother and
three sisters, recalls the horrors of those days.
UK: Generation Of Swinging Singles
Growing Old – And Lonely (July 20, 2004)
In the U.K., 32 older persons on average die unnoticed
in their homes each day. Isolation of elderly people is
becoming a problematic issue in the British society, and
think-tank Demos has been calling for attention to
improve this situation. According to Demos, the number
of isolated elderly British will increase by a third to
2.2 million by 2021, mostly due to the factors such as
the rise in single-hood, increase in divorce, and
decline of multigenerational households. Experts suggest
that, in this technologically advanced age, the use of
telecommunication technology, particularly the Internet,
will help the elderly lead more cheerful lives.
Jamaica: Elderly Turn Out To Bid
Shearer Farewell (July 19, 2004)
It was the elderly who represented the majority of crowd
at Hugh Shearer’s funeral, former Prime Minister of
Jamaica who ardently worked on the welfare of senior
citizens. At the funeral site, some described Shearer as
a “decent human being,” and another remembered him as a
“militant trade unionist” who always defended workers’
rights. "He never believed in the violence, the bad man
gangs or anything like that... a loving man, always
among the people…he had humility, and I have to conclude
here, because I'm becoming overwhelmed" --- Shearer’s
former bodyguard shed tears.
UK: Wheelchair Woman Robbed In
Street (July 14, 2004)
Two men threatened an elderly woman in a wheelchair and
her friend and forced them to hand over £100 in
Grantham, Lincolnshire. They took the money and left.
According to the victims, the robbers were both young,
one in his early 20’s and the other between 30 and 40.
Ireland: Elderly Pedestrians
Warned Of Truck Danger (July 14, 2004)
Senior citizens have more risk in getting killed by
trucks in slow moving traffic, the Irish National Safety
Council has warned. The Irish Road Haulage Association
has also commented that many older people tend to use
truck bumpers as a handrail to cross in traffic. Over
the last five years, nearly 1,000 pedestrians were
killed after being hit by a truck, and “the level of
road deaths among elderly pedestrians was shocking.” “If
you cannot see the driver, the driver cannot see you”
–Pat Costello, chief executive of the National Safety
Council, said in a message to the elderly pedestrians.
UK: OFT Helps Elderly Deal With
Doorstep Seller Tricks (July 14, 2004)
In the U.K., the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) has
launched an official campaign to help elder consumers
fend off unfair deals. Often manipulated by sales agents
and their so-called ‘high-pressure tactics’, older
persons tend to become victims of consumer frauds. Often
sales agents overprice items such as home improvements,
orthopedic beds, mobility scooters, and hearing aids.
Supported by social service groups such as Help the
Aged, OFT has created a list of tricks often used by
sales agents; for example, they have the tendency to
offer the “once in a lifetime never repeatable deal.”
Japan: Floods Wreck Chaos In North
Japan (July 14, 2004)
At least five elderly died so far, perishing in the
record-breaking heavy rains in Niigata, Japan. The local
officials have reported landslides trapped or caused the
drowning of these victims. The severe rains have lasted
for more than three days, and thousands of Niigata
residents have been ordered to evacuate. Japan’s
Meteorological Agency predicts more rain in the region.
Did the government have any special evacuation plans for
older persons?
China: GuangXi: Grandparents Can Be
“Rented” To Help Busy Parents (July 14, 2004)
(Article in Chinese)
School children are on summer vacations. Their parents
who have to go to work can pay RMB10 to RMB20 to rent a
grandparent to take care of these children. In WuZhou
City, GuangXi Province, the elders organized a “rent”
service to assist busy parents who have to go to
work to earn money to support their children.
Australia: Elderly Blast Quality Of
Meals (July 13, 2004)
Australian seniors found cockroaches, mold, a fly, and a
piece of plastic in one after another meals delivered to
them by Australian Meals on Wheels program. In the past
18 months, older persons from all over the country have
made more than 800 complaints to authorities. Though the
Federal Government provides a $1.20 subsidy for each
meal, the remainder is funded by the elderly, which is
66% of the total cost. “Honestly, I do not understand
what I am eating or ordering,” a senior citizen
complains. It seems that food contractors compromise
older persons' health by shortchanging the Meals on
Wheels program. Who's pocketing the profits on
sub-standard food?
China: A Scene In Shanghai: Chinese
Who Are Living Abroad Come Back To Shanghai To Spend
Their Late Life (July 13, 2004)
(Article in Chinese)
Shanghai – There are not enough elders' houses in Hong
Kong and the retirement housing in the U.S. is too
expensive. The Civilian Dept officers now describe
Shanghai as the first choice city for expatriate
Chinese to spend their retirement.
Japan: More Japan Elderly Conned To
Buy Goods (July 12, 2004)
Fraudulent businesses are cheating Japanese elderly more
frequently in recent years—casting aside traditional
Asian notions of respect for the elderly. Consumer fraud
has more than tripled in the last five years, according
to the Japanese government. The Citizens Life Center
reports that, in most cases, salespersons forced elderly
into buying water purifiers that don’t work and futon
mattresses that are overpriced.
Hong Kong: Hong Kong Nurtures Elderly
Web Designers (July 12, 2004)
Elderly people in Hong Kong can get together and
socialize through the computer. “The Senior Web,” set up
by Cyber Senior Network Development Association Ltd,
offers a place to post their personal websites. There,
elderly Hong Kong citizens can talk about their daily
life and post personal pictures. To help elderly
learners, the association also established a
Computer-Learning Center (’01) where they offer courses
on computer knowledge. The Hong Kong Legislative Council
believes that learning how to use Internet helps senior
citizens’ psychological health.
China: Elders In Hong Kong Like Using
Computers (July 10, 2004)
(Article in Chinese)
Hong Kong – “Hello, I'm WanXian Qu, one of the students
in the elders' computer training class. Welcome to visit
my personal website and I'd like to share some
unforgettable and interesting things in my life with
you,” reads the student's website. In LaoYou Network,
the internet friends can surf a group of beginners'
personal websites. These elders introduce themselves and
their backgrounds, sharing their experiences in
practicing TaiJi and posting their photographs. All of
these reflects that these elders have tremendous
enthusiasm to learn about and use a computer.
Japan: Chill Out, Be Friendly, Live
Longer (July 8, 2004)
Through the description of the life of an 88-year-old
Japanese man, journalist Justin McCurry introduces some
key facts that contribute to the Japanese world-longest
life expectancy. Japanese elderly live longer and
longer; they eat healthy, have health check-ups very
often, visit their neighbors, and read newspapers every
day. Most of them keep working even after the retirement
age. In fact, they make up 7% of the total labor force
in Japan. Today, life expectancy in Japan stands at 85
for women and 78 for men, but the government is still
looking into adding two more years to each over the next
six years. The article provides a “Dos and Don’ts” list
to live like Japanese elderly.
China: Beijing – More Than 3,000
Elders are Lost In Beijing Yearly. The 10,000 “Helping
Elders” Cards Didn't Help Them (July 7, 2004)
(Article in Chinese)
An 83-year-old man was lost in the west of Beijing. A
nice man saw the older persons' Helping Elders' Card and
called the helping phone number 999. When he reached
999, he told them the elder's card number. People
working for 999 found out the elder's relatives by using
his card number. However, the helping elders' network
has not yet been used much.
New Zealand: Residents Of Retirement
Village Told To Pay Up (July 6, 2004)
Managers of the Culverden Retirement Village in Auckland
have told elderly homeowners that they must pay extra
fees of up to $640 a week if they want to stay in their
homes, The New Zealand Herald has reported. Though the
village managers defended themselves on the ground that
the fees are the result of a law change, many are
skeptical because other similar institutions did not
raise their fees in the same way. A local senior citizen
agency also questioned a back-dated “administration fee”
of $340 per week.These fees are more than twice as high
as other homes in Auckland. The Culverden residents said
they thought they could live there for the rest of their
life, but now in order to do so, they have to pay fees
they cannot afford.
Israel: The Fight for Gay Rights Is
Far From Won (July 6, 2004)
A claim filed by the Association for Civil Rights in
Israel (ACRI) in March of this year demonstrates that
the framework of Israel’s society is still predisposed
towards heterosexuality, says ACRI legal adviser, Dan
Yakir. The ACRI representative noted that the success of
individual cases involving same-sex couples were decided
primarily by lower courts and were not therefore, locked
into “binding and precedent setting legal standards.”
Israel’s NII, National Insurance Institute, has faced
strong criticism from equal rights advocates for its
purportedly discriminatory pension laws. As it stands,
the NII’s policies prohibit the widow or widower of a
homosexual partner to collect the deceased party’s
pension. To some, this proves that the struggle for gay
rights in Israel is “far from won.”
South Korea: A Young Love Defies
Both Distance and the Decades (July 6, 2004)
The story of Kim Chang Saeng and Son Soon Yee is the
kind you often see in the movies or read in romance
novels. The pair separated in 1943 when Kim moved to the
Japanese-ruled Sakhalin Island to work in the coal
mines, leaving Son behind in Korea. During Kim’s time in
the Japanese province, war between the Soviets and the
Japanese forced him to remain on Sakhalin. From then,
Kim explains, he had been tormented by dreams of his
true love. He married while on the Japanese island but
says he never stopped thinking about Son. Some five
decades later, Kim has returned to Korea and discovered
that Son has been waiting for him since his 1943
departure. She explains, "My faith in God made me
believe that I would see him again and for women, there
should only be one man.” After 58 years apart both Kim
and Son’s dreams have finally become a reality.
UK: Anger As 92-Year-Old Man’s Home
Burgled (July 5, 2004)
On the afternoon of July 3, two men broke into a house
and threatened a 92-year-old resident to give them
money. They stole hundreds of pounds and left the scene.
His son, who called the police, says “My father is very
upset and has been shaking and crying.” The elderly
people who live in the same community also reacted with
horror, saying that they no longer feel safe. Thieves of
this “nasty crime” have not been arrested yet.
Germany: Vodafone Germany
Introduces Custom Mobile Phone For The Elderly (July
5, 2004)
Vodafone Germany has introduced a cellular phone
equipped with only three keys. It is primarily produced
for elderly and sick people who feel normal phones are
too complicated to use. In addition to unrestricted
incoming calls, the phone can have three out-going
numbers: One is connected to the service center where
users can store information such as their health
condition and doctor’s information. Then, the users can
choose two external numbers for the remaining two. The
article provides information regarding price and more.
UK: My Mother Is Begging Me To
Finish Her Off (July 5, 2004)
The daughter of a 98-year-old woman has been trying to
convince her mother that life is full of fun. But the
old woman, depressed about aging, keeps saying, “I want
to die.” Recently the family put out an accidental fire
in a nearby cupboard and the woman was absolutely
furious. Realizing the threat, she screamed, “I could
have been killed!” Despite the mixed messages, the
daughter continues to provide her mother with something
pleasant in her day.
Fear Of Crime Stalks Delhi's Elderly
(July 2, 2004)
India: In the city of Delhi, the capital of India,
robbers seem to target well-off retired persons living
in upscale housing areas with a dramatic increased in
homicides. Last year, 18 people over 60 living alone
were killed, and this year, there have been another 12
victims. Local police authorities have introduced new
wireless alarm systems and enforced police patrols.
Former senior police officers point out that the entire
policing programme needs to be changed in order to
tighten the security for senior citizens. The article
does not report on robberies among poor elderly or the
income gap between “well-off” and “poor” in Delhi.
Netherlands: World's Oldest Person
Celebrates Birthday (July 1, 2004)
The world's oldest person, Hendrikje van Andel-Schipper,
celebrated her 114th birthday in a retirement home in
Hoogeveen, Netherlands. The town of Hoogeveen is proud
of her. In her honor, they have named a street outside
of the retirement home after Hendrikje and gave her a
pendent as a birthday gift. She says that the secret of
her longevity is in her diet- “I eat a herring every day
and drink a glass of orange juice every day for the
vitamins.” The world's oldest person appears very
healthy.
India: 80-Year-Old Marries Mentally
Challenged Woman (June 30, 2004)
An 80-year-old man from Makari village in Garwah
district got married to a 22-year-old mentally
challenged woman. Family members from both sides have
opposed to this marriage.
UK: Older People Face A Lonely
Future, Thinktank Warns (June 30, 2004)
The think-tank Demos has reported that the number of
lonely and isolated senior citizens in Britain will grow
by a third to 2.2 million by 2021, due to the
skyrocketing rates of divorce and childlessness. Its
report, Home Alone, points out that the existing support
services for the elderly can exacerbate their isolation.
In order to provide effective services, Demos recommends
that older people become more closely involved in
planning and providing support services. In addition,
the report proposes some community programs related to
further education, access to public institutions, and
volunteer activities.
China: As the Elderly Population in
China Increases Rapidly, Citizens Must Ask A Question
– What Will Elders’ Lives be Like in the Year 2050?
(June 28, 2004)
(Article in Chinese)
In the first half of the 21st century, the elderly
population in China will increase by an average rate of
4.4% per year. This alarming percentage increase would
be double the aging rate of Chinese elderly who are 65
years of age and above, and 6.1 times the rate of
increase for the overall population. By 2050, China will
see every 1 out of 10 people to be 80 years old and
above, and every one out of four elderly to be above
80.
Taiwan: The Taiwanese Elders Have
Started Hiring Financial Experts to Take Care of Their
Own Financial Problems to Ensure a More Secure Late
Life (June 27, 2004)
(Article in Chinese)
TaiPei – Being faced with longer and longer retirement
life and more and more complex financial products, the
elders in Taiwan started hiring financial experts to
take care of their own financial problems to ensure a
secure later life.
EU: Research: Senior Citizens
Online
Among the EU Member states, nearly a quarter of the
population is 55 years of age or older. Due to
inactivity, loneliness, etc, many feel excluded and
depressed very easily. In order to improve the life of
senior citizens, the EU has launched a project called
Senior Online (’98). Their ultimate goal is to improve
the integration of elderly people by encouraging them to
use new technologies, especially the Internet. The
Internet that has been introduced to the elderly is more
user-friendly: for example, a mouse is built into the
keyboard, available services are selected (travel,
health, gardening, etc), and written text can be
converted into voice messages. So far, the project has
been successful, bringing considerable attention and
enthusiasm among the elderly.
Scotland: Anguish as Blind OAPS’ Home Shuts (June 28,
2004)
Craigholme, a charity run home for deaf and blind older
persons is about to close in April. The home situated in
Bearsden, near Glasgow was Scotland’s only home for
placing deaf and blind older persons. Deaf Connections
that run the home attributed the closure to high
managing costs and low residence turnover rate.
China: Older Workers from U.S. Take
Jobs in China (June 22, 2004)
China’s “hot demand” for foremen has compelled many
soon-to-be retirees to make the move to Asia. Chinese
business owners want to hire expatriates largely because
of their experience but also because of their
willingness to adapt to the cultural and social
atmosphere in China. Many of the country’s industries
are still primarily dependent on manpower for the
operation of machinery and older persons, who have more
exposure, present a viable alternative. Would-be U.S.
pensioner James Lee explains, “It's blue-collar. You
really have to get your hands dirty. You can't just sit
in the office... [Young people] can get confused so
easily." In the year 2001 alone more than 119,900
foreign work visas were issued in China and it is
suspected that older persons represented a significant
portion of the group. The symbiotic relationship between
Chinese business owners and U.S. older workers proves
beneficial to ethnic Chinese families as well. Lee
explains that it was his decision to migrate that
prompted his 33-year old daughter to move to China. The
two now live together in a high-rise apartment in
Shanghai.
China: More and more elders in the
Elder’s House ask for more and more employees in the
elders’ house (June 21, 2004)
(Article in Chinese)
TianJin – Recently news reporters interviewed directors
at several elders’ house in TianJin and found out that
it is more and more difficult to hire additional
employees. However, more and more elders in the Elder’s
House ask for a larger number of staff in the elders’
house.
New Zealand: Gambling Woes Hit
Over-60s (June 21, 2004)
Older persons in New Zealand at an increasing rate are
requesting help to reduce chronic gambling habits. New
Zealand’s Salvation Army has experienced an increased in
the number of older persons requesting counseling for
gambling addition. Problem Gambling Helpline reports
that older persons over the age of 60 are spending an
average of $500 a week on gambling.
Korea: Older Koreans Happy with US
Life (June 21, 2004)
A preliminary unpublished survey conducted by the
Institute for Aging Studies (IAS) and the Korean
Community Services of Metropolitan New York (KCS) of the
United States indicated Korean elders living in New York
were happier with life than Korean elders living in
Korea. The survey conducted over a period of 17 months,
involved 254 older persons aged 60 and over in New York
and 1,276 older persons in Seoul and Chunchun, Kangwon
Province in Korea.
India: They Live Their Life Here With
Dignity (June 17, 2004)
Dignity Foundation recently launched the Dignity
Lifestyle Township in Neral, a town situated 100 km from
Mumbai. In India most of the homes cater to the poor and
lonely older persons. Due to increased globalization,
especially in urban areas, joint families are no longer
the norm. A new group of educated, independent middle
class older persons has emerged with a different
attitude from the previous generation.
Ireland: Mayo Support for Coventry
(June 16, 2004)
Mayo Rehab recently launched the The Coventry “Irish
Elders Project.’ The project involves buying a ticket
for €84 for a twelve month draw. The proceeds of the
drawing will be spent on maintaining the Teach na
hÉireann center in Coventry. The centre was to serves as
a support system for the 400,000 Irish immigrants living
in isolated, dreary pockets of England.
India: Elderly Find a Friend in the
Internet (June 16, 2004)
67- year-old Vishwas Deshmukh uses the Internet to keep
in touch with his daughters who live in US. A noticeable
trend has emerged among urban Indian older adults who
overcome their fear of computers to stay in touch with
children settled abroad. The internet is the cheapest
way for families to keep in touch. Seniors also find the
internet to be a good resource for health and financial
news. Recognizing the need, numerous Indian senior
sites have been created.
China: DaLian City – The Elders
Support Their Own by Subleasing Their Houses and
Moving to the Elders’ House (June 15, 2004)
(Article in Chinese)
Sixty-five year old Ms. Li from DaLian City was a
teacher before retiring. Recently she told a reporter,
“I sublease my house for RMB 700 per month. Since I pay
RMB 650 per month for the Elders House and I don’t have
to do grocery shopping, laundry, or cooking, I can save
my monthly retirement salary.”
China: The Elder American Chinese:
Buying Insurance for Their Future (June13, 2004)
(Article in Chinese)
If a person retires at 60 years old, and if he eats
$5/meal everyday, how much will he spend in the next 20
years after his retirement? It will be $200,000. For
many American Chinese elders, where will the money come
from? This Howard, New Jersey, Metro Insurance Company,
reminds them of the importance of buying insurance.
Saudi
Arabia: Dubai Police Dept Established New Elderly
Project (February 22, 2004)
(Article in Arabic)
UAE,
Dubai . “Charity to our
Parents,” a new project implemented by Rashdia Police
Department, helps protect the human rights of older
persons in the United Arab Emirates
. This project focuses on the elderly who don’t have
families or children to take care of them and who cannot
make emergency calls for assistance. The system works on
emergency sensors located on the older persons’ body.
Emergency sensors help all older persons in the UAE, no
matter what their nationality.
Russia: Old Dreams Unfrozen in the
City of Ghosts (February 2, 2004)
In the middle of the 20th century, many
Russian citizens accused of treason or other crimes were
shipped to forced-labor “gulag” prisons like Vorkuta, a
barren settlement north of the Arctic Circle . Decades
later, a World Bank-sponsored project is offering gulag
survivors, most of them elderly now, money to leave
Vorkuta and start a new life in southern Russia. But
many like Ms. Kalashnikova, 83, want only to return to
their old lives in their hometowns, which for most is no
longer possible. These elderly men and women have lived
in Vorkuta almost all their lives, and can’t simply
leave everything behind them - for the second
time.
Scotland: Nursing
Home Fire in Scotland Kills 11 (January 31, 2004)
A fire in a Scottish nursing home killed at least 11
old people and injured 6. Most of the victims died from
smoke-inhalation when smoke entered their bedrooms while
they were sleeping. The 43-year-old nursing home
provided short and long-term care to old people as well
as to mentally ill people. The tragedy underscores the
need for strict safety codes and procedures for public
buildings, especially those for old or mentally ill
people.
Latin
America: Aging of Latin American Population will Be a
Challenge until 2025 (January 30, 2004)
(Article in Spanish)
Since the Latin American aging population will
significantly increase by the year 2025, the stability
of the medical and social system of this region will
also be challenged. This demographic increase is
projected to be much greater than that of developed
nations with some stresses on the economy.
Sweden:
Gymnastics and Reduced Working Hours: The Recipe of a
Swedish Bank to Keep its Seniors Healthy (January 15,
2004)
(Article in French)
Swedish bank Swedbank has found an original way to
motivate its senior employees: each week, the bank will
pay for one-hour of fitness and exercise. Swedbank also
provides flexible work options: employees over 58 can
work 80% of their former working hours and receive 90%
of their former salary, with no consequences for their
retirement scheme. The changes have resulted in fewer
and fewer seniors applying for a sick leave.
Intergovernmental
Regional Conference on Ageing, Latin America & the
Caribbean (December 11, 2003)
The NGO Committee on Ageing at the United Nations, made
up of organizations whose work affect older persons
holds monthly meetings, October to June. Here, Claire
Laganne, Global Action on Aging Intern from France
reports on the December 2003 meeting devoted to the
Regional (Latin American and Caribbean) Conference. Organizers
designed the conference to discuss and plan regional
approaches to implementing the UN’s 2002 Plan of Action
on Ageing developed in April 2002 in Madrid.
On November 10, 2003, the Professor
Peter Leuprecht, Special Representative of the
Secretary-General in Cambodia, Presented his
Report for Human Rights in Cambodia
Claire Laganne, a Global Action on Aging Intern from
October 2003 to June 2004, reports on the UN General
Assembly Third Committee activities. Here, she
summarizes the November 10, 2003, presentation of
Professor Peter Leuprecht, Special Representative of the
Secretary –General in Cambodia, on human rights issues
in Cambodia. She made a summary about what was
said and focuses on interesting points that were
underlined during the meeting.
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