NGO Forum on Ageing 5-9 April 2002

ESTHER “TESS” CANJA, PRESIDENT OF THE AARP: “IT SHOULD BE GIVEN A GREATER ATTENTION TO ELDERLY WOMEN”

NGO Forum on Ageing
April 7, 2002

Q. Do you think that the contribution of women, specially the elderly women, could be the key for change in the developing countries?
A. To analyze this we have to bear in mind some items: the first of all is that 80% of the world population live in these countries. In addition, elderly women carry out an enormous effort that is not borne in mind, like child care or those people who have to be cared. I do not think this is going to change but it is going to need more help of every kind from their government like economic or health help.

Q. It is said that elderly women in these countries fight in a more extended way, they never surrender and try to take care of their families above all. Should it be convenient to give a specific help to these women?
A. It is clear that they have necessities and it is demonstrated that, as they live more they usually care their families, and they have to give attention to their children or grandchildren. But elderly men have necessities too, and society would have to take care of them without paying attention to the gender.

Q. What are the proposals that AARP are given to make sure that it is fulfilled the role of the woman as agent of change?
A. AARP is working hard to create opportunities to improve the levels of employment, of volunteers,

Q. Do you think that the II Meeting on Ageing of the UN should pay attention to the worthy work of the elderly women?
A. It should give a special attention to elderly women because they are suffering from a double discrimination, because of their gender and age.

Q. Do you think that elderly people are more adaptable and face crisis better?
A. I could not answer that question. In my life I have met special women, that face terrible problems without surrendering, but I have seen others who can not face them. I think that both elderly women and men have their own specific strengths. I can not talk generally.