Home |  Elder Rights |  Health |  Pension Watch |  Rural Aging |  Armed Conflict |  Aging Watch at the UN  

Mission  |  Contact Us  |  Internships  |  Donate Now!  

Elder Rights

  Reports                      Articles

Reports

Canada: Violence Against the Elderly (October 21, 2005) 
(Report in French) 
The Canadian department of justice published a report to describe violence against the elderly. The text aims to inform the population about a taboo issue and develops very precisely the different aspects of this violence. The report is divided into 8 main themes that reveals the gaps in current Canadian laws. It explains, among others, the widespread violence against the elderly, the circumstances that encourage this violence and its impact on the society. The report contains different strategies to improve the situation. 

United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs: Population Division, Population Challenges and Development Goals Report 2005
This report focuses on global population trends and the implications these trends have for achieving internationally agreed development goals. Population aging represents one of the foci of this report. The number of persons aged 60 years or over currently stands at 10 per cent of the world’s population. By 2050 it is expected to rise to 22 per cent. The rate of population aging is higher in less developed countries where most persons live in poverty and have few, if any, social benefits. There are currently nine working age persons for each person aged over 65. By 2050 this number will drop to just four. Since paid employment is generally sporadic and informal, there are few pensions. The report’s authors refer to development goals such as the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing, the Programme of Action of the International Conference on Population and Development, and the United Nations Millennium Declaration. The report emphasizes the importance of gender in aging, as life expectancy is higher for women, and consequently the majority of older persons are women.

Canada: Encouraging Full Elder Participation in Quebec’s Development (October 4, 2005)
(Report in French)
Acting on the request from Quebec’s ministry for family, elderly and women’s rights, the Elderly Council published a report entitled,  “Encouraging Full Elder Participation in Quebec’s development,” in order to build a Quebec “for all ages.” The Elderly Council sought ways to use the energy and talents of some 2.5 million older persons in improving  Quebec’s development. This report presents 17 suggestions to engage them,  or conversely, to overcome elders’  feeling of being abandoned. It highlights the necessity of organizing an information and promotion campaign about the image of older people. The report could have been even more interesting by generating ideas and methods to achieve intergenerational projects such as engaging very old persons with midlife professionals.  The project reveals that governments are trying new approaches in this provocative regional assessment. 

The United Nations Development Programme Human Development Report (September, 2005)
In the chapter on Inequality and Human Development (see Chapter 2) the report takes a critical stance on the state of healthcare in the United States, exploring inequality and health in the nation. The references to the US highlight the links between healthcare and the inequalities caused by income, health insurance coverage, race, ethnicity, geography and –most importantly— access to care. The section of the report devoted to the US centers mainly on non-elderly Americans, as the focus is on the uninsured population. Importantly, the report notes the racial and ethnic health disparities existing in the US. Omitted from the report were the proposed cuts to Medicaid that will affect the welfare and health of the poor and elderly. The report refers to the differences in life expectancy between the poor and the wealthy in the US. Men in the top 5% of the income distribution enjoy a life span 25% longer than those in the bottom 5%. 
The chapter on the State of Human Development (see Chapter 1) includes an in-depth exploration of changes and current trends in global life expectancy. There are still wide gaps in life expectancy between the rich and poor, linked to past setbacks, including HIV/AIDS.
In the chapter on Aid for the 21st Century (see Chapter3) a description of the poorest households in Zambia reveals that they are headed mostly by women (many of whom are elderly) and comprised of children orphaned by HIV/AIDS. Also in this section, researchers noted the aging population as a factor in the smaller scale of fiscal deficits in the European Union relative to the US or Japan.
While the chapter on violent conflict (see Chapter 5) details the effects of conflicts on civilian populations in general, only women, children and the poor are recognized as being particularly vulnerable. Unfortunately, there is no mention of the impact of such conflict on elderly populations. 

France: A New Role for Seniors (July 2005)
(Extract of a Report in French) 
This is an extract of the French Economic and Social Council’s report responding to the EU’s green book about intergenerational solidarity. This report provides recommendations giving new importance to the elderly. For example, it proposes a progressive retirement for people over age 60. “Stopping work abruptly is a waste of experience and knowledge, ” says the report. You can also read another extract of this report called, “Solidarity with the very old.”

France: Solidarity with Very Old People (July 2005)
(Extract of a Report in French)
This extract comes from the French Economic and Social Council’s report that responded to the European Union’s green book on intergenerational solidarity. This French report made many recommendations about caring for very old persons. It says that families, institutions and social services must share the responsibility for the care of the very aged. Interestingly, it insists that the older person must be at the center, i.e., to be respected for his or her individuality and life style. 

Brazil: 'Sixty Plus: The Elderly Brazilians and Their New Social Roles’ (June 2005)
Brazil now contends with a rapidly aging population. The impact of this change will be seen in the future. A new book compiled by Ana Amelia Camarano about aging in Brazil explores the dynamics of the aging population “in the context of marked social transformations and fiscal adjustments.”
The book, published in English, was released during the 18th Congress of the International Association of Gerontology in Rio De Janeiro in June this year. Featuring over 30 contributors, the book includes subjects such as aging and disability, families, social security, health, financial motivations in later life, inflation and elderly Brazilians, and population aging in the public policy agenda.

Africa: Aging in Africa Issue 24 HelpAge International (May 2005)
HelpAge International released its No. 24 newsletter on Ageing in Africa. The publication adds to information on older refugees caught in emergency situations in the Darfur Crisis. Here you can also find out about the Regional Aids Programme launched to maximize the involvement of elderly and increase the awareness, support, and inclusion of older people affected by HIV/AIDS at district, national and regional levels.

Russia: The System of Social Protection of Older People in Russian Federation 
The report includes a description of the Social Protection System of Older People in Russian Federation along with information on the Legal Basis for Social Protection of Elderly in Russia, Pensions, the System of Benefits and Allowances, the System of Social Services.  These materials provide statistical information on the assistance provided to elderly by the network of residential social care institutions, day care units and social care departments
(the original article can be found in Russian).  

Africa: Ageing in Africa Issue 23: HelpAge International (February, 2005) 
HelpAge International, an active advocacy group based in London focusing on aging issues in developing countries, released its 23rd newsletter featuring stories about Africa. This publication treats elder abuse, HIV/AIDS, poverty, and other topics. Please check it out!

Articles

Mexico: By 2030, Elderly Adults Will Comprise 17.68% of the Population (October 20, 2005)
(Article in Spanish)
At an international conference that addressed the issues facing elderly citizens of various Latin American Nations (Segundo Curso de Capacitación para Coordinadoras de las Estancias de Atención y Encuentro para Adultos Mayores) representatives from 35 municipalities from the region of Morelia and Uapan discussed topics such as providing appropriate employment and adequate social assistance to the continuously increasing number of elderly persons. The conference also focused on ways in which the represented nations could reorganize their social structures to address the needs of their elderly members. Teresa Zarazúa Ortega, chief of the Department of Attention to the Elderly, stressed the importance of overcoming cultural stereotypes that inhibit a nation’s citizens from recognizing their responsibility towards their elder counterparts.

France: Wide Mobilization Against the Social Isolation of the Elderly (October 21, 2005) 
(Article in French) 
In France, since last Monday, the “blue week” is at its heights. Its number one aim is to cope with the isolation of seniors and encourage relations between generations. Dedicated to the elderly, this blue week does not really draw much attention from the French public. Yet, this event has existed since 1951 and tries to remedy the population disregarding the elderly. The week ends with a contest over the theme: “Let’s talk about old people” and is umpired by French minister Philippe Bas. To reinforce the effort to fight discrimination against the elderly, Prime Minister Dominique de Villepin announced that the theme of the Family conference in 2006 will be the “relations between generations”. 

France: A Third of the Directors of Human Resources Think that Older Workers’ Retirements Will Lead to a Competence Shortage (October 20, 2005)
(Article in French)
The French and American companies’ managers are not anticipating the looming shortage of competence among employees due to older employees leaving the workforce. The French, German and English directors of Human Resources were asked about this expected shortage of competence. Some 85% answer that they know about such shortages. However, only 7% of them said that they are taking measures to anticipate the shortages. As a matter of fact, about 80% of them are simply waiting for this expected catastrophe to happen. 

Algeria: Elderly’s “Baraka” (charity) (October 20, 2005)
(Article in French)
The elderly association, Dar El Ihcene, in Ain Tremouchehmt-ville (Algeria) plays an active role in Muslim Ramadan solidarity. Every day its members offer about 500 full meals to the poorest families of the town. The well-organized and very active team is already focusing on another project: they’re planning to buy a bus to transport older persons. 

France: French Trade Union CFDT supports the Seniors Employment Agreement (October 19, 2005)
(Article in French)
French Trade Union “CFDT” agrees with business leaders about employment of older persons. The union says that this is the first time that such an agreement has tried to promote “career safety.” They view it as a first step testifying to the new interest in older workers’ employment. 

Spain: First Survivor Partner Benefit Paid To a Homosexual Widow Person (October 18, 2005)
(Article in French)
The Spanish social security program has paid its first surviving partner benefit to an homosexual person who married in July, thanks to the new law giving equal rights to same-sex couples as to the heterosexual couples. The Spanish Labor ministry said the pension was paid the day after the surviving partner applied to the ministry. 

Canada: Driving After 65…What’s the Problem? (October 18, 2005)
(Article in French)
How can security of older drivers be assured? When authorities revoke an older person’s driver’s license, the person will suffer from isolation. The former drivers then can lose their self reliance as well as their bond to their families. Although families try to prevent their relative’s isolation, former drivers usually have to give up their social life. That’s why some cities deliver meals to older persons, a new kind of license that includes observing the health condition of the older person. But this made-to measure license is not available in all Canada: the most isolated counties have no delivery programs.

Cameroon: Cameroon Forgets the Elderly (October 17, 2005) 
(Article in French) 
The living conditions of older people in Cameroon is becoming more westernized. Elderly are more isolated and alone. This development follows the rural exodus and the HIV Aids epidemic that’s decimated a whole generation of children who were supposed to take care of their parents. While they should be resting, the elderly now have to take care of their grandchildren. “It’s a real change in the traditional African way to respond to elderly, and old people have a hard time accepting it,” Jean Robert Mbané, president of the organization, “Together, Let’s Protect Our Elderly,” explains. Old people used to make a living with cocoa and coffee, but these economic markets have disappeared. 

Japan: Sick of Their Husbands in Graying Japan (October 17, 2005)
An alarmingly common phenomenon is occurring among older women in Japan. As their husbands retire and spend more time at home, the women are being relegated to fulltime domestic servants. A resulting condition is occurring in an estimated 60% of these wives. The condition has been dubbed retired husband syndrome, or RHS by experts, and is a serious stress-related illness. Experts recommend therapy and spending as much time away as possible from husbands. Others have developed programs to teach retired men how to be more independent, including guidance on how to shop, cook and clean for themselves.

France: The Rate of Working Seniors: a New Economic Indicator in France (October 17, 2005) 
(Article in French) 
Only one third (33.8%) of the French population over 55 is still working, as compared to 39.9% in the whole of Europe. Moreover, unemployed people over 50 have only a slight chance of working again due to age discrimination. Commenting on this economic situation, French Minister of the Economy T. Breton said that the statistics of seniors working would now be included as part of the French economic indicators made public each month. France wants to deal with a severe crisis of inactive seniors that affects 500,000 to a million people. 

Russia: Old People in Cages (October 14, 2005) 
(Article in Russian)
Lyukian Bezrukov, an inhabitant of Uryupinsk (Russia) nursery home for elderly and disabled invalids applied to the local court claiming that the administration of the home had deprived them of freedom. “First it was hard to believe in such facts,” says Sergey Kozorez, Uryupinsk’s prosecutor,” but the inspection has fully confirmed those horrible facts. Among 330 inhabitants of the house for elderly, 210 have been forcefully put into a special locked room equipped with iron bars on the window and the door. The furniture consists of only two uncomfortable iron beds whereas up to 10 old men and women could be put there simultaneously until they improved their “bad behavior.” The staff provided food only occasionally. The administration of the home explained the situation by saying that as a result of pension reforms in Russia, elderly disabled who lived in the nursing home received money instead of social benefits and suddenly became “rich” and therefore drank a lot. Therefore, the staff hoped that “temporary prisons” would help to keep the elders under control. The prosecution continues and residents hope that a final verdict will uphold their rights.

China: Silver Hair Industry Waiting to be Explored (October 13, 2005)
(Article in Chinese)
As the Second China International Expo on Products for Seniors kicks off in Dalian, China, the “Silver Hair Industry” once again becomes the focus of public attention. This industry integrates agriculture, manufacturering, as well as the service industry. China has a relatively well developed market in terms of personal health care products, but in other sectors, the market is still open for development.

France: Jacques Chirac Asks the Health Professionals to Be More "Responsible" (October 13, 2005)
(Article in French)
The French Council of Ministers passed the appropriations bill for social security  Wednesday. In Parliament, the debate over the law at the end of the month will probably be very tense. The controversial bill plans to reduce the deficit of social security down to 6 billion euros. That’s why Jacques Chirac has asked doctors and hospitals to cut their expenses. The bill will have a strong impact on the use of generic drugs as it plans to reduce their cost by 13%. Chirac’s plan will force a new direction in the social security system, a “step toward privatization” the Socialist party says.

Taiwan: Seeing Ageing as an Economic Opportunity (October 12, 2005) 
(Article in French) 
In 2018, Taiwan will go from an “ageing society” to an “aged society”, explained the minister of economy in Taiwan. It means that 14% of the population in Taiwan will be over 65 years old. But unlike others politicians, he mentioned it was actually a great economic opportunity as an ageing population also means new medical needs and, as a matter of facts, new opportunities for the pharmaceutical market. 

France: The "Problem" of Ageing (October 12, 2005) 
(Article in French)
When talking about the “problem” of ageing, it's important to understand which problem one is talking about. Indeed, most people who will turn 60 soon will not be “old” as the average "old" age will be around 80 years in 2050. As a matter of fact, the problem is less ageing than its supposed cost, through pensions, for example. Y.Geneste and J. Pelissier explain, among others, the changing attitude toward the French system of pensions which is based on solidarity between generations. They also debate what they call the misconception of the cost of ageing and encourage people to think twice before talking about the “problem of ageing.” 

The Network of the Adoptive Grandparents: a Real Professional World (October 10, 2005)
(Article in French) 
The Senior Corps gives grandparents a real education about how to deal with problem children or abandoned children. The elder ones have the chance to remain active or to learn from new techniques. Numerous organizations of this type have been created, to encourage intergenerational activities, such as “Foster Grandparents program” (Dakota). In this program, old people with low incomes can meet problem children within the framework of the legislation entitled "To fight against the abandonment of children." These organizations play the role of "go-between" among generations and help combat poverty as well.

World: OECD Being Very Alarmist About Population Aging (October 10, 2005)
(Article in French)
The OEDC asks governments to modernize their employment policies especially concerning older persons. OEDC highlights that the average time when people are pensioned has increased from 11 years to 18 years for men and from 14 years to 23 years for females between 1970 and 2004. OECD calls for a better use of opportunities brought by the lengthening of people’s lives.

France:  "Elderly Film Festival" a Strong Connection with Cinema (October 12, 2005) 
(Article in French)
Old age is not taboo anymore! That’s what the “Lumiere Blanches” festival (White Lights) has been proving for two years now. Entirely dedicated to aging, the festival develops different ways to show old age, from the Kurozawa deep style to the light and tender Hollywood style. On the negative site, you won’t see many older women or Alzheimer's in the films. Nevertheless, the festival aims to improve the representation of aging in cinema as well as putting it in a new light. 

France: Trade Unions and Managers Have Agreed to an Important Feature of Senior Employment (October 12, 2005)
(Article in French)
Unions and Managers have agreed to increase the length of temporary employment contracts for unemployed people aged over 57. This agreement was the topic of one of the questions raised in the French Parliament on October 12, 2005. But Parliament must pass the measure. Trade unions feared the right wing majority would extend this longer temporary contract to other social groups, preventing people under temporary contracts to get permanent jobs.  

France: "America First”…No! “Youth First!” (October 10, 2005)
(Article in French)
The growth of the world population has started to slow down and has generated greater fear of aging. Yet many regions of the world differ enormously with respect to longevity.  People live longer in northern countries, especially in Japan and Iceland, with average ages of death now at 86 years for men and 79 for women. However, figures of the Western word cannot hide the real crisis in the former USSR, where the average age of death is declining due to the elder health care crisis, and in Africa, where HIV-AIDS kills more young and midlife people. The issue in the western world revolves around three questions: “Should we quickly start having more babies, or should we work to older ages or should we be more open to immigration?”   On the other hand, the “southern world” is trying to save its youngest population.

France: The Increasing Figure of Elderly and the Work Policy (October 10, 2005)
(Article in French)
On October 10th the OECD (Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development) will hold a press conference in Brussels about the new work policy of the western countries to deal with the increasing number of older persons. The Forum will review how people now live longer and retirement makes up a greater share of their citizens’ lives. The Forum will probably consider ways to encourage retirees to find new work if they wish. The Forum will work hand in hand with governments who stand to benefit from this high level brainstorming. 

France: Take a New Look on Aging (October 5, 2005)
(Article in French)
The French minister for social security, Philippe Bas, stated yesterday at the French and Quebecois Observatory of Health that we all had to “change the way we look at the elderly.” He added that we should rather say “living longer” than “getting old.” This is a matter of respect but also to change the image of aging. Indeed, older persons are still very often taking care of their own parents as the aged can actually belong to two different generations. The Minister added that if Alzheimer disease and dependence were the main issues of aging, more and more older persons will try to stay active until they die. That’s why he wants to deal with what he calls “the new active age.”

France: Less Tax for More Children (October 3, 2005)
(Article in French)
This tax proposal may help raise the birth rate and combat the problem of aging: the French Council of economic analysis says that families that have children should pay less social taxes. This new approach to an economic issue has two aims: fight against the poverty of families with more than three children and help raise the birthrate. The council also thinks that all taxes should be adjusted to the number of children in a family. Among others ideas, the council proposes to change the financial bonus given to the families at the birth of the third child. According to its director, turning that bonus into a tax credit would be much more efficient in helping families. This would also encourage families to have children. These ideas show that the fight against poverty can also go hand in hand with a pro-natalist policy. These new point of view also challenges the idea that “all women have to go back to work,” an idea which is also a reality. Among women from 25 to 49 with one child, 88 % work. 

Canada: Getting Old…Getting Poor (October 3, 2005)
(Article in French)
The National Consultative Council on Aging (CCNTA) asks all governments and the general society to do all that is possible to reduce poverty among the elderly in Canada. Indeed, about 7% of the Canadian older persons live below the poverty line and the gap between poor and wealthy retired people will grow wider in the next decade, though the Canadian system claims to be one of the best in the world. That’s why the Council decided to address all the failures in the pension system by proposing some 15 recommendations contained in this report. 

Zimbabwe: Grandparents Shoulder the Burden of Care (September 27, 2005)
Grandparents in Zimbabwe, one of many African nations burdened by the HIV/AIDS pandemic, need more help in raising their grandchildren. They are likely to rear children orphaned by a parent’s death due to HIV/AIDS. Economic strife, along with physical limitations to produce food, has made it increasingly difficult for grandparents to provide access to education and nourishment to children in their care. Any increased assistance to grandparents will lead to an improved life for orphaned children in Zimbabwe. 


Belgium: Press Release from the Belgian Government to the Trade Union (September 20, 2005)
(Article in French)
Due to high unemployment in Belgium, policymakers want to oppose the idea that age is a barrier to employment. This policy, well known in Europe, deals with over 60 working people and over 45 unemployed. In fact, the government wants to emphasize life-long education and to spread what they call the “career plans.” The government wants to launch new projects such as a bonus system for people who will work over 60 and the creation of an “end of career job” for older unemployed. The government intends these measures for the private sector but the public service may have to adopt them as well. In a related development, the government wants to encourage unemployed people to return to work by awarding a bonus as soon as the person finds a new job.

France: Blue Day for the Elderly in Morbihan (October 5, 2005)
(Article in French)
The blue day in the French region of Morbihan has focused on the elderly during the week preceding the official starting date in France. This week is supposed to be the “great place for the elderly speaking, an oral account of the subjective feeling of aging”. This day testifies to the local population’s strong interest in their seniors as well as to seniors’ wish to help others, especially the youngest. 

France: Trade Unions and Employers Mobilized for Negotiating about Seniors Employment (October 5, 2005)
(Article in French)
Whereas the news has mainly dealt with the big strikes of October 4^th  in France, trade unions and employers resumed today their negotiations about employment of older workers.  The parties had stopped talking and took a 3 month break. During these negotiations, they will discuss the application of Fillon Pensions Reform in 2003 (Mr Fillon was then social affairs minister), elderly employment issues, work conditions and protection against unemployment.

United Kingdom: Elderly Evacuated in Scare over Killer Gas (October 5, 2005)
In Oldham Road, England, carbon monoxide which has no smell but potentially deadly gas was leaked from a boiler adjacent one of the units. 30 residents were evacuated and sent to the hospital. Fortunately, no one was found to have carbon monoxide in the blood so that all residents were discharged. According to the nursing home’s spokesman, the boiler is serviced regularly and had been inspected within the last six months. But even so, why did dangerous gas leak into the nursing home? Is this because of a boiler or something else? Many nursing home residents are not able to evacuate themselves so the investigation should be done completely in order to prevent a similar case in the future. 

Cuba: Population Aging Confronts the Nation and it Must Adapt (October 4, 2005)
(Article in French)
It is now the time when all universities start their academic year. In Cuba, the first great senior university session gets underway as well. In Cuba people over 60 represent more than 14.5% of the population and in 2010 Cuba could have the oldest population of Latin America. This specialized session offers classes and other activities to improve the life quality of the elderly. These policies aim to exchange intergenerational knowledge with a focus on the important role for the elderly, as a real part of the Cuban society.

France: Veterans Help Fight Against Unemployment (October 4, 2005)
(Article in French) 
Because the French Defense ministry wanted to help young unemployed people in France, the deputy minister of the Veterans, Mr Hamlaoui Mekachera, has asked French military veterans to transform 9 schools into a “second chance school” against unemployment. Though the officers feel confident to give this intergenerational help, the question remains whether the young people will want to live with the military rules.

France: Getting out of Jail Old: Tough Way to be Born Again. (October 3, 2005)
(Article in French)
One thing is to get old in jail, another one is to get out of jail old. The people convicted for more than 15 years or who leave prison after 60 years old usually think of their release as a second birth. Indeed, the former convicts, once out, often have no job and no family (when everyone around them has built their own lives). A few organizations that deal with former prisoners say that bringing them back into society is difficult. One of these organizations wants to create a special center adapted to ex-convicts’ needs.  Former convicts believe that they have served their time and once out, deserve a full place in society.

France: Game Over for the Elderly (October 3, 2005)
(Article in French) 
The government of Switzerland plans what journalists called a “mini revolution” in taking care of the elderly: developing day care facilities as well as giving help at home. The reform was conceived in anticipation of 180,000 elderly in 2010, a figure that the current budget cannot meet. Meanwhile, the government wants to change the aging policy into a cheaper one. It claims that all people in “EMS” (public health institutions) actually don’t need such an expensive care. That’s why medical assistance could be given at home, the government says. The whole challenge is to overcome a paradox: reduce the help brought to the elderly AND make their life easier. 

Nepal: Senior Citizens, Our Responsibility (October 1, 2005)
In Nepal, senior citizens often complain that they are not getting fair treatment from family members and society. Though the government has expressed concern for senor citizens, no significant steps have been taken to assist them. As the society ages, more elderly people need help with housing, medical treatment and other issues. This article argues that society as well as institutions should do more in order to help the hopeless and powerless elderly people. Indeed, this is a world wide imperative!

Congo-Brazzaville: October 1: International Elderly Day (October 1, 2005)
(Article in French)
“Aging in the new millennium: poverty, aged women and development under focus” that’s the theme of the International Older Persons Day 2005. While the UN asks governments to develop ageing policies, Congo has promoted concrete actions towards older people. The media press from Congo describes the increasing interest in aging issues in developing countries in this article.

The Attorney General’s Office of Mexico City Anticipates Signing an Agreement to Investigate the Killings of Older Adults (September 30, 2005)
(Article in Spanish)
Who is killing older adults in Mexico City ?  What lies behind these heinous acts? The Mexico City Attorney General’s office of Mexico City is discussing signing an agreement to increase investigations with the National Institute of Penal Sciences of the Attorney General of the Republic.  The investigations will focus on the assassination of elderly adults in the city. Batiz Vazquez, the Attorney General of Mexico City, acknowledged the pressing need to address this problem, indicating that in the last eight days, the Attorney General’s office has registered three homicides. According to Gerardo Laveaga, director of the National Institute of Penal Sciences, the covenant will bolster theoretical knowledge regarding the killing of the elderly by conducting more statistical research on specific homicides, and to use the research findings to take preventive measures against possible criminals.

Brazil: Statue Has Improved the Lives of the Elderly (September 28, 2005)
The president of the National Council for the Rights of the Elderly, Perly Cipriano, announced that the Senior Citizens’ Statute has improved since it was ratified on October 1, 2003. Even though the rules still need some improvement, most of the Brazilian states have Councils of the Elderly and the National Health Surveillance Agency, the Public Defense Ministry, and the Brazilian Bar Association monitor the activities against the elderly. The number of elderly in Brazil as well as Latin American countries is rapidly increasing. While free access to mass transportation and concert ticket discounts help, affordable medical care and a secure pension are really needed! 

Russia, Udmurtia: October 1st– International Day of Older Persons (September 28, 2005) 
(Article in Russian)
In 1990 the General Assembly designated October 1^st as the International Day of Older Persons. Starting in 1992, this day has been celebrated in Russia . In Udmurtiam pensioners make up almost 40% of the population. The majority lives in villages and small towns. Beginning September 27 and going to October 10, the local administration will organize free concerts, movies, roundtables and meetings where the elderly will be able to communicate with the local and regional administration, ask questions, receive answers, as well as enjoy the activities organized due to this special occasion. Read further for information on the life of Udmurtian elderly in rural areas.

Chile: One in Three Elderly Adults Suffers Some Form of Abuse (September 23, 2005)
(Article in Spanish)
Although Chile has no statistics on abuse of its elderly, three recent Latin American  demographical studies show that at least 30% of older Chileans regularly suffer some form of mistreatment ranging from negligence, to physical, psychological, and sexual abuse. Despite the alarmingly high rate of elderly abuse, of the 600 studies concerning elderly members of the Chilean population, only one deals with physical and psychological mistreatment. According to one of the three recent Latin American studies, the abuse of elderly women (33.2%) is slightly more common than that of men (26.9%). The most common form of abuse is psychological. Most victims of elderly abuse do not look for help, and those who do tend to consult with friends, based on the assumption that to look for help through public services would be futile.

Nepal: Senior Citizens to Hold Rally (September 23, 2005)
In Nepal, October 1st is the Elderly Citizens’ Day. The National Senior Citizen Organization Network Nepal (NSCONN) and the Senior Citizen Welfare Association of Nepal (SCWAN) had a press conference. Dr. Leela Devi K.C. said the greatest need among elderly Nepalese is access to affordable medical services. She emphasized that most elderly were depressed because they receive little care and attention from their families and society. Hopefully the Elderly Citizens’ Day will focus the country’s attention on how to create a better society for older Nepalese. By the way, does your country have a special Day to celebrate the gifts and capacities of older citizens?

Ecuador: Renewed Concern for Elderly Adults (September 23, 2005)
(Article in Spanish)
Non-governmental organizations in Ecuador have recently complained about the lack of free healthcare and assistance in planning a healthy lifestyle for older adults. The most recent chapter of this debate took place at the Department of Medicine at the Catholic University of Guayalquil, Ecuador, and was organized by the Committee for Social and Educational Action. The Committee said that of 140,000 elderly citizens in Guayalquil, only 28% of them receive sufficient health care benefits to remedy their most basic medical needs. In organizing this conference, the Committee wanted to draw attention to the urgent needs of older persons and to propose projects that would improve the quality of life for older citizens and increase their involvement in the city’s economy.

Russia: Who Will Have Money for Transportation? (September 22, 2005)
(Article in Russian)
Last spring older persons throughout Russia protested vigorously when the government took away their right to free transportation. The government’s failure to provide sufficient money to buy public transport tickets made elders very angry. Now, the government has found an additional 4.3 milliards rubles in the state budget to give more travel compensation to the elderly. During 2005 the Russian government has spent 8 milliards of rubles for transport in its effort to promote its monetization policy.

China: China’s Income Gap Provokes Alarm, Report Says (September 21, 2005)
The Xinhuan News Agency reported that the income gap between China’s richest and poorest citizens is approaching a dangerous level and could lead to social unrest. For example, the civil servants earn an average of US $1,900 a year in nationwide, while urban incomes in China are about US $1,000 a year. In the countryside; however, average incomes are about $300, and nearly 30 million Chinese live in absolute poverty, meaning that they lack enough food and clothing by local standard. In addition, another 60 million have incomes below US$100 a year—well below the $1 a day that the World Bank takes as its standard. Because China has a big population and covers a vast geographical area, it will be a challenge to reduce poverty with a privatized approach. What is the gap between rich and poor in your country? 

China: Social Services for the Elderly Must Go a Long Way to Become Efficient (September 16, 2005)
(Article in French)
The realization of the 11th Five Year Plan for social welfare programs directed to older persons (2006-2010) comes at a real turning point in dealing with aging in China. “Population aged over 60 will increase up to 147 million in 2010, to represent 12.57% of the total population” said Mr Yuanm, leader of this plan committee. A striking example: Shanghai has the highest growth in the number of aged people in China with about 20% of its local population representing 2.6 million people. China, with the greatest number of elder citizens in the world, faces tremendous challenges as it tries to engage the capacities and meet the needs of its older population.

Japan: ‘The Elderly’ Need to Be Redefined (September 19, 2005)
In Japan, the third Monday of September is a national holiday called “Keiro no Hi,” the Respect for the Aged Day. Generally, those aged 65 or older are considered to be “the elderly” and on Keiro no Hi, they receive gifts from families, friends, and sometimes even from local governments. However, according to the Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry, there are about 25,600 centenarians and more than 1 million citizens aged 90 or older. When the 7 million Japanese baby boomers, those born between 1947 and 1949, become “the elderly,” the definition of elderly should be indeed changed. Currently, the average life expectancy of Japanese men is 78 as well as 85 for women, and compared with past century, “the elderly” are healthier and more active. If elderly is redefined to mean those aged 70 or more, the ratio of the elderly population will drop from nearly 20% to 15%. Well, so-called “the elderly” may not mind redefining the definition if the government makes their jobs secure.

Scotland: Heat or Eat Fears for Elderly (September 19, 2005) 
Age Concern Dundee warns that this winter will put older people at great risk due to soaring energy bills. Ian Borthwick, who has led Dundee-based advocacy officer, said vulnerable elderly people may be facing a straight choice between “heating and eating.” He also added “we know already that in 2002-03 that 2500 elderly people died as a result of cold-related illness.” The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) announced that winter fuel payments for the elderly, which is £200 for an individual over 60 and £300 for the one over 80, would again be paid in November and December in order to cover its cost. But how about January and February when more snow falls than in November and December? 

China: Emotional Void Waiting to be Filled for Elderly ( September 15, 2005 )
(Article in Chinese)
The report about an old person who attempted suicide by jumping into a river due to intense feelings of loneliness and abandonment has generated a great deal of public discussion.  Experts point out that the government needs to play a more active role helping elderly cope with emotional difficulties. In addition, geriatric study programs should be encouraged in academic institutions as soon as possible.

Mexico: Elderly Affected by Electoral Reforms (September 15, 2005)
(Article in Spanish)
Changes in the electoral procedure in Cuernavaca , Mexico , if approved by the Chamber of Disputes, could result in those members of the population aged sixty-five and older obtaining the right to participate in the upcoming 2006 elections. Humbreto Valverde Prado, former electoral counselor of the Chamber of Disputes in Cuernavaca , sent a document to the Congress of the State on Wednesday containing, among other proposed reforms, one requesting that all persons aged sixty-five and older and in sound mental and physical condition be granted the right of suffrage, which, up to this point, legislation has denied them. Along with pressure from the State Commission of Human Rights, associations of elderly persons will appeal to parliamentary factions to push for a reform that would enable them to participate in the elections.

World: Millennium Development Goals Must Target Poorest, Say Older People (September 13, 2005)
HelpAge International asked at the United Nations Millennium Summit Review in New York last week that the international community respond to the needs and rights of the poorest and most marginalized people in order to achieve the MDGs. Currently, more than 10% of those living with less than a dollar a day are over 60, and its percentage is expected to be risen as the number of elderly increase. Doña Fernanda, 83 years old living in Bolivia, had been working since she was a child. Every day, she collects papers and plastic on the street to make money. For each kilogram (2.2 pounds) of rubbish, US$0.05 is paid to her. But how she can take care of herself with this money? Aging is, not will be, a major issue for this century. In developing countries, particularly in Asia and Latin America, the elderly population is expected to rise from 8 to 19% by 2050. If the world governments ignore the Millennium Development Goals, what sort of old age will the middle aged of today find in twenty years?

South Korea: Elderly Taking Jobs Others Quit (September 13, 2005) 
The National Statistical Office says that the number of the unemployed who are not seeking work for reasons other than ill health or age has been increasing, while a growing number of older people are trying to reenter the workforce. The official with the office said that people who are not looking for a job are categorized as “economically inactive,” and reached a monthly average of 1.2 million, an increase of 19.6% from the same period last year. On the other hand, among the economically inactive group, the people who said they stopped seeking jobs because of their age has dropped 2.8% in the first seven months of this year’s average. Nowadays, many seniors are active and want a chance to work. 

Russia: Only for Those Who are Old (September 12, 2005)
(Article in Russian)
The Moscow government has decided to celebrate the Day of Older Persons on a very high level this year. About one hundred events dedicated to the elders have been planned for October 1, 2005. Among these events are concerts, excursion, tours, and competitions with a lot of prizes. Lyudmila Shevtsova, Moscow deputy mayor, said that the government is planning to increase the amount of extra pension monies currently received by Moscow elders.  The  budget will also consider additional payments to pay old Moscovites once per quarter.

India: Homes for Senior Citizens Getting Ready (September 10, 2005)
In Chennai, the city located in the southern part of India, a corporation is establishing ‘Assisted Living Community Centre’ for senior citizens. This is the first project promoted by the LIC Housing Finance Ltd. Care Homes Limited. S. K. Mitter, Chief Executive of LICEFL said the LICHFL had set a target of Rs. 6270 (US $143.085) for 2005 to 06 towards individual loans for housing. As the number of elderly increase, assisted living facilities as well as nursing homes will be required, particularly in developing countries. Not only governments but also private companies should work together to build affordable houses for the elderly.

Japan: A Small Proposal for an Aging Japan (September 9, 2005)
Japan faces a significant, demographic crisis due to a low fertility rate and the strict immigration policy. According to the author, the fertility rate in Japan is below 1.3 and because the country does not encourage immigrants, the population in Japan is declining. In the first six months of 2005, the number of deaths already exceeded births by 31,000, and the World Bank expects that the Japanese population to decline 2.8 million by 2015. However, a lower population will reduce the population density in Tokyo and throughout the country since Japan is among the most densely populated industrialized countries. If Japan opens its door to immigrants, it would likely make the housing density much worse. 

Japan: In Typhoon, Elderly People Most at Risk (September 8, 2005)
When typhoons attack the country, the elderly suffer most. This time, 19 of the 27 dead or missing were senior citizens. Three women in their 70s were found dead in a rural small community in Kagoshima Prefecture. Though they lived alone, they got together to the home of one of the women when the typhoon attacked and a torrent of mud and rocks swept the house away. Though the city administrators planned to provide transportation service for evacuation, the city didn’t use the wireless system so that many residents were unaware of it. In March, the central government compiled guidelines for evacuating senior citizens in times of emergency. But the plan was rejected because it relied on private records and invaded persons’ privacy. Useful evacuation guidelines should be prepared.

Southeast Asia: ASEAN Told to Prepare for a ‘Greyer’ Future (September 8, 2005)
Minister for Social Development and Human Security, Watana Muangsook, said the governments of countries in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) should establish policies to prepare to care for an aging population. The population of elderly was 9.4% in 2000; however, it is expected to rise sharply to 15.4% by 2025 and 23.5% by 2050. Mr. Watana said ASEAN countries need to adopt policies and an action plans to prepare health services and social welfare systems for the vulnerable citizens. But Sutthichai Jitapunkul from Chulalongkorn University pointed out that most politicians regard the aging issues as unimportant because they have little effect on their popularity. 

United Kingdom: Ageism Regarded as Biggest Form of Prejudice (September 7, 2005)
According to the survey by the University of Kent, ageism is the most widely experienced form of prejudice in Great Britain. “People reported being the target of ageism more than any other form of prejudice- be it based on gender, disability, sexuality, ethnicity or religion,” the study leader, Dominic Abrams, said. The study showed that if people have friends with different ages, they are more kind and gentle to other age groups. The charity, Age Concern, that sponsored the survey, concluded, “Encouraging more intergenerational, positive contact may be a key way of tackling ageism against people of any age.”

World: Women's Paid Labor Keeps Door Open to Poverty (September 6, 2005)
A UNIFEM report calls attention to the fact that most women are expected to take on two jobs: paid employment and the unpaid family caregiving. Women tend to take on low paying and insecure jobs that do not offer benefits but allow them flexibility. While the female labor force has increased in absolute numbers, many question whether it is a positive sign. Numbers do not tell about their conditions of work. Martha Chen, one of the UN report’s authors, state that “companies often seek out female workers because they perceive them to be a source of cheap, unskilled labor, more docile and less organized than men.” Women’s greater risk of poverty will in turn increase their poverty in old age as women. Also, they will likely not have the benefits of healthcare and social insurance that underwrite more formally employed persons.

United Kingdom: Older Chinese People at a Disadvantage for Cancer Care (September 3, 2005) 
According to the research by the University of Sheffield’s School of Nursing and Midwifery, older Chinese people in Sheffield and Manchester, are disadvantaged in cancer screening, treatment and care, because of language and cultural barriers in the healthcare system. Professor Sheila Payne who led the survey and her team found that most older Chinese people were keen to find out about cancer. However, due to the language barriers and levels of illiteracy in both English and oriental languages, they have limitations of getting information regarding hospital care as well as end-of-life care. Also, the lack of interpreters or familiar Chinese food in hospitals is also a source of additional discomfort in times of illness. “To combat this disadvantage, health care providers need to ensure that information about cancer is made readily available in written and audio formats, in the appropriate languages for the Chinese community,” Professor Payne urged.

Mexico: Recognizing the Importance of the Elderly (August 31, 2005)
(Article in Spanish)
The physical and psychological well-being and continued social involvement of older persons are paramount to a country’s success. In Mexico City , the government has revised the pension system so that older persons receive a universal or social pension, resulting in an improved quality of life. Nonetheless, 60% of Mexico ’s elderly population continues to live in poverty and marginalized conditions. Although Mexico ’s constitution  protects elders from abuse, and permits older persons to demand pensions from their children, most elderly do not know that they possess such rights.  Mexico ’s government must continue to work for social and economic justice by making this crucial section of the population aware of its rights.

China: Senior Travel Market Expected to Boom (August 30, 2005)
(Article in Chinese)
Leading gerontologists in China predict that by 2030 the nation’s population of elderly will reach 0.31 billion, or 20.4% of the total population. The survey shows that currently senior travelers account for more than 20 percent of total number of travelers. It further speculated that a percentage equally that of developed countries could result in a 0.3% jump in GDP for China. 

Mexico: The Generational Pyramid Undergoes Important Changes (August 26, 2005)
(Article in Spanish)
According to Mexico’s National Consensus of Population (Conapo), there are 20.5 elderly adults for every 100 children. Elena Zuniga, general secretary of Conapo, points out that this means there are five dependents for every older worker, which, in turn, should result in an enormous potential for production. The ratio of older adults to children will continue to increase in the coming decades, predictions by Conapo indicate, as will life expectancy of both men and women. Along with her optimistic comments, however, Zuniga adds that the increasing elderly population could result in a “delicate situation,” as the government will have to create more informal employment for elders and strengthen the social security system to meet growing needs.

Russia: 111 Years for Anna Kuzmik Fly by in a Blink! (August 26, 2005)
(Article in Russian)
She was born on May 15, 1894, to a poor peasant family at the West of the Russian Empire which nowadays  is  the territory of Belarus . “My years fly by in a blink so it seems to me like one quick moment. I have always lived with a joy in my heart and I wish it to everyone. I also wish people to be more kind and to do no harm to each other,” says this very old lady.  

Switzerland: Experts Tackle Challenges of Ageing Society (August 26, 2005)
Switzerland is holding a three-day international congress entitled Healthy Ageing: Current Social Challenges. The Congress will discuss the rapidly aging population and the social challenges that will happen in the near future. Experts will examine issues in health care, problems with social inequality among the elderly and the threat posed by today's "cult of youth." The number of old people in Switzerland in need of care is expected to rise by one fifth over the next 15 years, according to the Swiss Health Observator.

Greece: Elderly In Squalid Homes (August 25, 2005)
An inspection committee in Athens, Greece, has discovered a number of private retirement homes that house their residents in cockroach-infested rooms and filthy sleeping areas. Of the eleven care homes the committee visited, only two were not found guilty of violating health regulations. Many nursing homes did not meet proper hygiene standards or suitable food storage conditions. The committee found dirty walls, wet mattresses and filthy toilets during their checks. Spoiled food was even found in the facilities. This is the second incident this summer that unveils the health risks that seniors are exposed to in poor nursing facilities in Greece. But as Athens Prefect Yiannis Sgouros states, “unfortunately, based on current law, the largest fine we can impose is between 15,000 and 65,000 euros depending on the infringement, while the maximum jail sentence is for a year and this can be bought out.” Is this punishment enough.

Portugal: Portugal Fires Could Speed Flight from Interior (August 25, 2005)
This year’s forest fires in Portugal have been the worst in decades. More than 600 firefighters and aircraft from the European Union have worked continuously to contain the fires near Vila Nova, about 110 miles north of Lisbon. Officials and residents warn that the forest fires will likely cause more people to leave the once-bustling farming village, making the land even more susceptible to future fires. Joao Dinis, aide to the board of the National Confederation of Agriculture, says that "major economic damage, environmental damage and people's feeling of insecurity are going to speed up the departure of people living in rural areas." Only the older people are left in Portugal’s countryside because many younger persons have departed for the cities.

Indonesia: Number of Elderly People Increasing (August 25, 2005)
Advocacy groups say the Indonesia government needs to stop ignoring its elderly and start taking action to promote their welfare. The Central Statistics Bureau 2005 data shows that there are about 16 million 60+ year olds in the country, which is about 8 percent of the country's total 210 million people. As average life expectancy increases to 68 years old for men and women, the number of senior citizens is projected to rise to 11.3 percent, or 28.8 million, by 2020. According to Emong Lansia Foundation for the Elderly chairwoman and HelpAge Indonesia director Eva Sabdono, "some 12 million senior citizens are poor and neglected." Indonesian seniors are more likely to have health problems, feel abandoned and neglected in society, and often are unable to pay for public services. 

Niger: UN Secretary General Calls for More Aid to Niger (August 24, 2005)
United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan urges humanitarian organizations to send more food aid to drought-stricken Niger, as the UN has only received half of the aid it asked for. While the response of aid agencies has been slow, Annan attests that it is important humanitarian organizations get together now to help the people of Niger. Young children and the elderly have been most affected by the severe lack of food.

Ghana: Interview with Chief Nana Boakyewa Yiadom Apeadu from Ghana (August 2005)
Chief Nana Boakyewa Yiadom Apeadu is the first female chief in Aburi , Ghana , West Africa . She has risen to leadership in her area to a position that no woman has had before her. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology as well as a Master’s degree in Human Rights and Justice. In an extensive interview with Chief Nana Apeadu, GAA learns about the joys and growing struggles of the elderly in Ghana.

Sudan: Garang Death Hampers Return of Refugees (August 24, 2005)
Following the death of Sudan's First Vice President as well as the leader of the Sudan People's Liberation Movement/Army, John Garang, humanitarian workers say there is dampened enthusiasm for repatriation among some Sudanese refugees in Uganda. Many people, including the elderly, wish to return to their native homes but fear doing so, as bloody riots are ensuing in the war-torn country. 

Congo: Chased Then Robbed: Another Day In Congo's Katanga (August 24, 2005)
Three thousand residents, elderly men, women and children included, of Congo's Katanga fled their camp fearing an attack by the "Mai Mai" militia, only to return to find that government troops sent to their rescue had looted their food and belongings. The situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo has been named one of Africa’s most neglected crisis areas, as the safety of civilians and UN peacekeepers are constantly being threatened by soldiers or militiamen.

China: Personal Accident Insurance Plan Available to Senior Citizens Over 65 in Shanghai (August 24, 2005)
(Article in Chinese)
For the first time, two million senior citizens residing in Shanghai have the option to participate the Personal Accident Insurance plan, which was not available to seniors previously. Annual premium is around RMB￥20, with half of the cost born by a local insurance company and the other half paid out of pocket. The highest coverage goes up to RMB￥ 10,000. But accidents occurred within domestic dwellings are not covered. The third witness is often hard to find and the legal procedure involved is very complex. 

UK: Concern Voiced About “Sinister” Tax Plan (August 22, 2005)
Critics have slammed the Government for pushing a “sinister” death tax, saying British pensioners face selling their homes in order to pay for higher council levies. Under this tax scheme, elderly homeowners are struggling to pay large council tax bills could opt to “defer payment” until they die. Councils would then be able to claim back the tax from the sale of these elders’ homes, with interest. While the Government claims this plan will help some seniors pay their taxes, it just doesn’t seem very fair at all.

Japan: Home Renovation Scams Causing Alarm (August 19, 2005)
Since the media coverage of two elderly sisters with dementia who were scammed out of 50 million yen in unnecessary home repair work, there have been reports of home renovation fraud all over Japan. A certified architect inspected the sisters’ house upon the city's request and noted that, while more than 100 pieces of reinforcement equipment were found under the roof, only 10 were actually needed. The sisters almost lost their home in an auction to pay for the scam. The National Police Agency states that the number of people victimized by home-renovation fraud nationwide has reached 8,200, with total damages reaching 11.9 billion yen. 

New Zealand: Bosses Told to Give Older Workers A Go (August 19, 2005)
Equal Employment Opportunities Commissioner, Judy McGregor, says that New Zealand's current skills shortage could be relieved if employers retained workers in the labor market past retirement. Many employees aged 65 and older would continue to work if given the right encouragement. Unfortunately, employers must change their thinking and overcome the negative stereotypes associated with mature workers. Dr. McGregor claims that “some employers are not creative enough in their thinking about retention of skills.” When older workers do retire, labor market participation and productivity declines. Dr. McGregor also believes the government should try to help businesses keep older workers in the job force. 

Scotland: 22-Point Charter Drawn Up to Aid Elderly (August 19, 2005)
Scotland has created a 22-point action plan to improve the lives of thousands of elderly, which will be implemented next year. The charter was drawn up after the council consulted with numerous older people who expressed their views and concerns. These changes are meant to provide more services and benefits for the Scottish elderly. This kind of charter should be implemented everywhere. 

Switzerland: Info Bus for Elderly Immigrants Hits the Road (August 16, 2005)
An information minibus started its 15-month, 40-leg tour of Switzerland on Tuesday on a mission to explain the functions of the social and healthcare systems to immigrant pensioners. Many elderly immigrants in Switzerland are unaware of the fact that they enjoy the same entitlements as Swiss citizens, a problem that the “migration bus” hopes to address. In addition, first-generation immigrants largely belong to a low-wage bracket, and suffer poorer health compared to Swiss citizens. The bus project will collaborate with local organizations and institutions dedicated to caring for the elderly at each stop. Most importantly, organizers hope that their country-wide road show will “raise awareness of the current needs and past contributions of older immigrants among the general public.”

Argentina: A Great Love Illuminates Old Age (August 15, 2005)
(Article in Spanish)
The film “Elsa and Fred,” written and directed by Marcos Carnevale, casts new light on the notion of aging, urging viewers to reconsider negative stereotypes often associated with older persons. In suggesting that elderly adults may enjoy the same intensity of sentiment in an amorous relationship as a passionate young couple, the film forces us to acknowledge that the human erotic emotional sensibilities are not necessarily dulled by the ageing process. Carnevale’s work also suggests that such character traits as risk and spontaneity are not confined to younger individuals, but that the elderly, too, may behave with the same energetic impulse that society tends to attribute only to the young and restless. “Elsa and Fred” thus ultimately seeks to eliminate the negative implications associated with the term “old age” and the artificial separation between the young and the elderly.

Scotland: Concern Shortage of Doctors Could Lead to Elderly Deaths (August 15, 2005)
Elderly residents in Scottish care homes are dying in hospital emergency departments. There aren't enough physicians available to treat them in their home surroundings. Care home owners are saying that they are finding it very difficult to recruit physicians to visit patients in their own homes, as they are reaching the end of their lives. The Executive denies that there is a widespread problem. 

China: China Has Great Potential in Tapping Market for Senior Citizens (August 15, 2005)
“China's 'graying-hair market' has great potential as the development of products specially made for the elderly has lagged, said Li Baoku, an expert on research of gerontology… Li, president of China's Gerontology Development Foundation, said that market potential of the elderly population has been rising in China in correspondence with their rise in income.”

Scotland: OAP Care Crisis: Evicted (August 13, 2005)
“More than 1,200 vulnerable pensioners have been evicted from Scottish nursing homes, with another 700 set to follow because of a care crisis.” Scotland’s nursing homes have been closing at the astonishing rate of one per week. Many have been forced to sell by bank managers, or face bankruptcy. Elderly advocate groups are urging officials to help these pensioners; many are seriously ill and have no family to depend on. These elders could die from enduring the trauma of being evicted out of their own homes. The crisis is also creating bed blocking in hospitals because there is nowhere for the pensioners to go. 

South Korea: Aging Korea On Course for Massive Problems (August 11, 2005)
According to the Ministry of Health and Welfare, South Korea’s population is aging faster than just about every other country in the world. Korea's elderly, aged 65 and up, make up 8.7 percent of the population (or 4.18 million). By 2050, that percentage is projected to skyrocket to 37.3 percent. 

Guam: Decades After Abuses By the Japanese, Guam Hopes the US Will Make Amends (August 11, 2005)
Elderly Guam residents hope that the US government will compensate them for injustices suffered under Japan’s 32-month occupation during WWII. The Guam World War II Loyalty Recognition Act, a House bill introduced in April with 83 Congressional sponsors, hopes to accomplish just that. Compensation for the Guamanians would be comparable to the compensation paid to interned Japanese Americans, estimated to cost about 135 million US dollars. The Guam WWII Loyalty Recognition Act hopes to rectify the injustices largely enumerated in the 2003 Guam War Claims Review Commission, where elderly witnesses painted a picture of Japanese colonial occupation that turned progressively violent against anyone suspected of sympathizing with the United States.

Malaysia: Hazy Malaysia Offers Help to Douse Indonesia Fires (August 10, 2005)
Malaysia is offering to help neighboring Indonesia extinguish forest fires that have smothered Kuala Lumpur. The fires have caused much destruction in the Malaysian capital, aggravating traffic and health conditions. The smoke has triggered a surge in respiratory illnesses, and is causing public health concerns, especially for children and seniors. Something should be done.

South Korea: Korean WWII Sex Slaves Fight On (August 9, 2005)
Korean sex slaves of the Second World War, who were exploited by the Imperial Japanese Army, are demanding Japan stop hiding the brutal reality of the war. They are also asking for an official compensation to be paid on account of the brutality they suffered. These so-called “comfort women” were taken to "comfort stations,” where they were repeatedly raped by Japanese soldiers. Many women were even killed as part of an attempt to cover up the crimes. While Japan has made some public apologies for the crimes, many feel Japan has not done enough for these women.

China: Family Planning Policy Saves China 300 Mln Births (August 8, 2005)
China's total fertility rate has dropped to around 1.8 since the nation started to exercise its family planning policy in the 1970s, which is 1.2 or 1.3 points lower than other countries or regions of the same economic development level and has saved China the birth of 300 million people. The average life expectancy has reached 71 to 72, ready at the same level with moderately developed countries.

Scotland: Council Tax 'Rip-Off' For Care Home Residents After Executive Blunder (August 7, 2005)
New housing laws in Scotland have labeled elderly residents living in nursing homes as tenants, thereby forcing them to pay more than £1,000 a year in council tax for their individual rooms. Despite having only private accommodations consisting of a room and a bathroom, elders are receiving bills from councils demanding they pay rates for full living facilities. Moreover, even if the rule is amended, those people who have been wrongly paying the council tax may not be able to claim their money back. That’s just preposterous.

Mexico: Mexicans at Home Abroad (August 4, 2005)
In recent decades, millions of working-age Mexicans have entered the United States. Most of them have come illegally, taking jobs on the bottom rungs of the American labor market. The question that follows is: do they go back to Mexico or stay in the States as they retire? With a rapidly aging population and virtually no public system of social security or health insurance, Mexico is not prepared to receive them back. But the United States is also unprepared to deal with millions of poor, aging immigrants, eking out a living without recourse to Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid or most other forms of federal assistance. 

Australia: Tassie Plan to Improve Aged Care Goes National (August 4, 2005)
The Australia Federal Government announced it would spend $336,000 on the Building Connections in Aged Care program that aims to attract young nursing students into geriatric care. The program will continue in Tasmania, but it will also be implemented in South Australia, Western Australia and Queensland. Senior lecturer at the University of Tasmania's School of Nursing and Midwifery, Andrew Robinson, led a university work-placement program with the federal government and six care facilities to show students the benefits of working in aged care. Initially, only 35% of students said they would consider working with seniors. But after the students participated in the program, 95% of students were interested in working with the elderly. This program should be cloned in many nursing schools.

UK: Cicely Saunders Dies At 87; Reshaped End-of-Life Care (August 4, 2005)
Dame Cicely Saunders died on July 14, 2005 in St. Christopher's in Sydenham, London at the age of 87. Dame Cicely was a founder of the modern hospice movement, as she played a significant role in providing palliative care for the terminally ill so patients could have peace of mind rather than enduring needless pain before death. She founded the hospice at St. Christopher's in 1967 and then helped spread the hospice movement of complementing “pain and symptom control with compassionate care” throughout the world.

Scotland: OAP Abuse Complaints Soar 240% (August 3, 2005)
Age Concern Scotland reveals that calls to Scottish Helpline for Older People have more than tripled within the last year! While these numbers are staggering enough, Age Concern fears that there may even be more incidents of abuse at care facilities that are not being reported. “Help the Aged is urging the Scottish Executive to press ahead for a Scottish Human Rights Commission to bolster the rights of the elderly and better protect them from abuse and neglect.” Why didn’t the Commission exist in the first place?

China: Survey Says For Healthy Life In Old Age, Fixed Income Is 'A Must' (August 3, 2005)
According to a recent survey conducted by a local insurance firm, eighty percent of residents in Hong Kong believe a fixed monthly income after retirement is essential and investment in pension schemes is a viable option. The survey also suggests annuity products are popular with retirees.

Canada: Retirement Laws Bad For the Working Poor (August 3, 2005)
A new book shows that Canada’a mandatory retirement is forcing many senior citizens, especially women, into low level jobs in order to survive. Fortunately, attitudes toward older persons in the workforce are slowly shifting. Experts expect Canada to eventually catch up with Australia, New Zealand and the US, which have largely banned compulsory retirement.

DPI’s Panel Discussion on Women with Disabilities (August 2, 2005)
Ms. Evelyn Chow details the major issues and concerns raised at the sixth session of the Ad Hoc Committee’s Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Rights and Dignity of Persons with Disabilities; which she attended at the United Nations on August 2, 2005. She summarizes, in particular, the challenges faced by elderly women with disabilities. 

Japan: Hiroshima Survivors Keep Memories Alive (August 2, 2005)
For 60 years since World War II ended, Hibakusha have been telling their terrible stories in not only Hiroshima and Nagasaki , where the nuclear bombs were dropped, but also all over Japan and overseas. “We were the offending side, but also the victims. We harmed people in China , Korea and South Asia . But the A-bomb was dropped on us, so we understand how difficult and terrible war is,” Yukio Yoshioka, 76, said. That’s why Hibakusha tell their terrible experience to “try to make sure it never happens again.” Now, all Hibakusha become the age over 60, and they were all exposed to radiation—means that their health is weaker than others. But Hibakusha never give up telling their stories—they believe that’s their mission in the world.
   
UK: Human Rights Law 'Fails Elderly' (August 2, 2005)
Help the Aged is urging the British government to push for a planned equality to protect the elderly, which includes the establishment of a Commission for Equality and Human Rights. The current Human Rights Act inadequately protects older people from mistreatment that may be difficult to be fully investigated or handled. “While statutory services were covered under the Act, the majority of care [within] the private sector is not.” It’s about time. 

England: Chinatown Frees the Spirits of Its Ancestors on the Mersey (August 1, 2005)
In Liverpool , England , hundreds of people from the Chinese community gathered to launch 100 hand-painted wooden boats on the River Mersey. Moira Kenny from Chinapool said the boats, painted by members of the city’s Chinese community, represent the returning of Chinese souls to their homeland. “The boats are a metaphor for the people who came here via the river.” She also added that this event gathered the elderly and young people to take them back to their roots, particularly for younger generation to respect their heritage. International migration has become very common nowadays. Not only in England but also in any other places, older people have a very important role to hand on their traditions and spirit to the next generation.

Japan: Survey of Seniors: 70 Is the New ‘Old' (July 30, 2005)
According to a poll of 60+ year-olds in Japan, age 65 no longer seems old anymore. The Japanese government continues to use age 65 as the limit for being "elderly" in statistical and other official purposes, but almost half of the respondents in the survey believe 70 should be the threshold. Maybe it’s time we reconsider what we think is “old.”

World: Global Aging: The Challenge of Success (July 27, 2005)
The global aging population will soon have a huge impact on societies, as governments struggle to deal with the social and economic problems that arise from the growing older population. “Japan and many European countries will be the first to grapple with the various challenges of aging that will soon face all countries, including the United States.” In Europe and Japan, the elderly consist of 20% of the population. Couples would need to have many more children than they currently have, or there would need to be large scale immigration into those countries, in order to halt the demographic shift of aging. As long as the number of births is reduced each year and improved health/medical care allow people to live longer, population aging does not seem to be slowing down anytime soon. 

Ireland: The Elderly Get Left Out In the Dark Again (July 27, 2005)
In Ireland, the private nursing homes subvention scheme was introduced in 1993 when the maximum subvention equaled  approximately 65% of fees payable. However, since then, the level of subvention has increased only one time, and the Department of Health has still no plans to increase it. Currently, the maximum subvention payable is €190 per week. However, people with a pension of more than €190.42 per week are not qualified for the subvention so they have to go to public facilities while poorer pensioners live in private nursing homes. How will the Irish government solve this issue?

China: Senior Citizens’ Bicycle Ride Highlights Wildlife Protection (July 27, 2005)
13 retired men and women, from a 59 year-old to a 74 year-old, from northwest China concluded a 5,700-kilometer bicycle ride! They left Urumqi, Xinjiang’s capital, on May 18 and traveled 100 kilometers a day during the past two months in order to promote public awareness of wildlife protection. They have received more than 330,000 people’s signatures for their campaign. Despite their age, they spent 24 days in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, more than 3,000 meters above sea level, where oxygen is much lower than ground level. Traveling on a bicycle is good for your health as well as for protecting nature. Congratulations on the successful trip!

South Asia: Maternal Mortality in South Asia is Second Highest in the World, UNICEF Says (July 27, 2005)
The Deputy Director Rima Salah, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), said that South Asia has high mortality rates despite the fact that it has enjoyed spectacular technological advances. “One out of every three child deaths occurs in South Asia.” The report is showing the strong link between poverty, gender inequity and the poor survival rates and wellbeing of the region’s children and women. A poor child is more likely not to be immunized or not to go to school, to be malnourished, and not to have access to clean water. “Every day, the focus on health could not be more appropriate or timely,” Dr. Salah added. Children are the people who are going to support the society in the future. To prepare for the aged society, South Asia should consider how to decrease maternal mortality and infant fatality. 

Australia: Elderly and Home Alone, Women Soak up Aid (July 27, 2005)
Elderly women are more likely to remain at home by accessing community services in Australia. According to the Australian Institute of Health’s report, women are three times more likely than men to be living on their own. Like other developed countries, Australian community service for the elderly is well-developed, offering assistance in cleaning, cooking, personal hygiene, shopping and getting dressed. In 2004, more than 30,000 packages of home-based care were provided, compared with only 235 packages in 1992. The number of elderly is expected to increase dramatically, from 1.8 million in 2110 to between 2.8 million to 3.7 million in 2026. Home-based care will be more and more needed! 

UK: 700 Barred from Adult Care Work (July 26, 2005)
The Department of Health reports that “more than 700 people have been barred from working with vulnerable adults,” since the Protection of Vulnerable Adults scheme was set up a year ago. The system registers the names of those workers accused of abusing or neglecting the elderly, mentally ill or other adults. Help the Aged organization notes the efforts taken to prevent abuse from happening to these vulnerable people, but declare that the statistics should be "wake-up call" to the British government to do more to address the large-scale problem of elderly abuse.

Japan: New Nursing Fees Hit Elderly (July 26, 2005)
The recently revised Nursing Care Insurance Law in Japan will abolish government spending on housing and food for geriatric nursing care, forcing the elderly to pay for these services. These changes will take effect starting October. The amendment has caused much concern among nursing care facility operators and families of nursing home residents, as some believe the changes are happening too quickly and the financial burden is too much for the elderly. Currently, some elderly residents pay fees between 25,000 to 53,000 yen a month, but with the revised law, residents may face increases of up to 80,000 yen a month.

Argentina: Geriatric Hospital Fire Leaves Government In the Hot Seat (July 25, 2005)
(Article in Spanish)
Aníbal Ibarra, the Chief of the Porteño Government assured that the “sad and fatal” geriatric hospital fire that killed three elderly women and injured 15 others in the town of Palermo, was due to an electrical malfunction. According to an Argentinean news agency, after the fire on July 23^rd, one of the deceased who had died of smoke inhalation, was tied to a bed.  This revelation left officials wondering if the other two women were in the same condition. When questioned if the hospital was overpopulated,  Ibarra firmly stated to authorities that there were “fewer residents than permitted.” He denied any responsibility for the three deaths. As part of a worldwide movement, many suspect the hospital's poor conditions. They demand reforms to ensure the safety of all elderly people.

UK: Concern Over Funding for Elderly (July 25, 2005)
Social services for the elderly are getting cutback, as administrators divert funds from seniors to other age groups. The elderly make up 62% of social services' clients but they only receive 47% of the financial resources, according to a report by SPAIN, a coalition of different charities for the elderly. That’s not right!
Elderly people in need of care are being "starved" of funding because social services across the country are "creaming off" money and diverting it to younger clients, a new report says.
The report by SPAIN, a large coalition of charities including Help the Aged and Age Concern, also said the number of households receiving home care had gone down by a quarter since 1997. Time to launch a public investigation!

UK: Government Urged to Back Research Into Ageing (July 25, 2005)
A recent House of Lords report proposes that the government invest more money to fund scientific research on ageing. Research manager Dr. Lorna Layward of Research into Ageing, the trust for biomedical research within Help the Aged organization, says that the meager £4.8m provided for ageing research by the Government Department of Health is inadequate. If more money is not granted, this will leave the UK greatly unprepared for the baby boomer generation.

China: New Look Entertainment Center for Seniors (July 22, 2005)
The new entertainment center in Shenyang is vibrant, chic, and buzzing with life. Unlike many of its urban counterparts, it boasts a rather different kind of clientele—the over-sixties crowd. Built to address the over 1 million elderly in Shenyang, this new entertainment concept provides a place for China’s elderly to relax, kick back, and enjoy. Though the activities in Shenyang’s “Entertainment Bar” are not always associated with the aging population (body building, anyone?), its conception brings to light a topic confronting most of China’s elderly: what to do. Recreation and social interaction should be integral parts of any senior’s life, and when these components are missing, what is there to replace them? Perhaps with more initiatives like the Entertainment Bar, China’s elderly will become better connected with its growing, fast-paced, and rapidly modernizing younger generations.

UK: Summit Call on Abuse of Elderly (July 21, 2005)
The charity, Action on Elder Abuse, is pushing for an urgent summit following BBC's “Panorama” undercover investigation of elderly neglect and abuse in one particular nursing home. The shocking live footage reveals patients having their most basic needs ignored, left dirty and even sitting in their own urine! Elder abuse cannot be ignored any longer! 

Chile: The Elderly (July 20, 2005)
(Article in Spanish)
Latin America is rapidly aging. For this reason, Chile is modifying the services it offers to older persons. A surprising new report describes the growth, lifestyle, financial status, and pensions of today and the future for the older people living in Chile.

South Korea: Elderly Suicide Rises 5-Fold in 20 Years (July 20, 2005)
“The suicide rate for South Korea’s elderly has increased more than five-fold over the past 20 years!” While other causes remain as leading killers of Korean seniors, this alarming statistic proves that more Koreans are adopting a nuclear family structure, leaving the elderly to face economic hardship and depression alone. Very sad situation.

Canada: 8M to Increase Senior Home Care (July 20, 2005)
The Ontario government is increasing spending on senior home care by more than 8 million dollars into the London area. This money will help relieve hospitals and long-term care facilities from seniors seeking treatment, where care is more expensive, as well as allow the elderly to receive care within their own homes.

Canada: Commitment to Find Solutions for Seniors (July 19, 2005)
“Seniors are the fastest-growing age group in Canada. Presently, one in eight people is over the age of 65; that number will be one in five in less than 20 years. Ministers Responsible for Seniors met in Québec City to reestablish their commitment to prepare for the challenges facing Canada’s governments and society, due to Canada's aging population and demographic shifts. Ministers also agreed to work together on issues affecting the elderly, such as social isolation and prevention of elderly abuse. Hopefully, Canada’s governments will keep their word and not alienate their senior citizens.

Australia: Groups Home in on Elder Abuse (July 19, 2005)
According to the John MacKean, the President of the Council on the Ageing Taasmania, 12,000 older Tasmanians are abused yearly. He estimated 5 to 8 % of the elderly Tasmanians suffer some form of abuse physically, emotionally, or financially. Though he does not admit elder abuse, MacKean said that “(it) is usually caused by a carer becoming so frustrated, angry or tired that they just snap.” MacKean acknowledged that dealing with people who were frail, dependent, confused and often cantankerous was demanding and thankless. Due to these behaviors, carers become frustrated and tired of taking care of the elderly. Tim Morris, Greens health spokesman, suggested that a mandatory reporting system to improve the protection of children works well so that a similar system might help the elderly, too. 

China: Aging in China (July 19, 2005)
A compilation of articles collected and reviewed by Ms. Evelyn Chow, examining the current experience of  growing old in different parts of China. The articles include information on emerging health and elder rights issues. Read on for more!

World: What Is Elder Abuse? (July 18, 2005)
So what exactly is elder abuse? The definition ranges from physical to emotional abuse, neglect to financial exploitation. Help stop elderly abuse now!

Australia: Elderly Abuse Rife in Tassie (July 18, 2005)
Lillian Jeter, executive director of Australian Elder Abuse Prevention Association, states that between 3000 and 12,000 elderly Tasmanians are abused each year, even by their partners or children! The Australian Council for the Rehabilitation of Disabled will be holding a conference to discuss the issues of aging and disability. But will this “hidden epidemic of abuse” be addressed?

Europe: Europe’s Slow Demographic Bleed (July 16, 2005)
Europe will soon need to deal with serious economic problems caused by a declining work force. This issue was one of the important concerns addressed in a series of conferences in Brussels, Belgium titled, "Confronting Demographic Change: A New Solidarity between the Generations." Many changes need to be implemented if Europe is to sustain economic growth, including increasing employment of younger and older people and modernizing the social welfare system. Sustainability!

Japan: Cover Story: Age Issue (July 15, 2005)
Kaoru Sato didn’t make it to Gunma University's Medical School, despite scoring 10.3 points higher than the average. Why? The only possible explanation is because of her age. A university official told Kaoru: "National universities are tasked with the responsibility to educate, train and nurture doctors, who will be able to serve the community. The process takes many long years. In your case, when we consider your age at graduation, there remains the question as to whether you would be able to serve the community, realistically speaking." While this situation may seem outlandish, age discrimination, in fact, is not unusual in Japan. What about your country?

Japan: Shutting Down Business Fraud (July 14, 2005)
Many Japanese elders are targets for criminals, specifically fraudulent business operators. These swindlers deceive unsuspecting seniors out of their life savings, completely aware that elderly people may live in isolation and suffer from impaired judgment. There have been complaints reported involving various fraudulent telephone or door-to-door sales, from home renovation to health food sales. The abuse schemes seem crazy but unsuspecting elders get snared. 

South Korea: Aging Korea Will Burden Young Workers (July 14, 2005)
According to the United Nations, South Korea’s elderly population is expected to grow to 37.3 percent of the total in 2050 – the highest in the world. The Ministry of Finance and Economy (MOFE) contends that the nation’s cost for supporting senior citizens will grow at the fastest rate in the world, as a result of a decline in birth rate and an increased aging population. This means that by 2050, about 1.4 potential workers will have to support one senior over 65 years. Market experts strongly suggest the “government adopt a long-term, systematic plan to deal with this problem by reforming labor, medical and pension sectors.” Will those “reforms” sustain older persons, both current and in the future?