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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.
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 addit |
