Archive for category: elderly poverty

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5 Reforms Addressing Elderly Poverty in Jamaica

Elderly Poverty in JamaicaJamaica, known for its vibrant music and glistening shores, is currently experiencing the harsh reality of elderly poverty. Unknown to the vast majority of the world, seniors in Jamaica grapple with limited financial resources, inadequate health care access and social isolation. According to The Ministry of Health and Wellness, approximately 17% of Jamaica’s population will be 60 or older in 2025. This is a 12% increase from previous years, which will result in more strain on the limited resources already granted to the elderly. However, there is hope on the horizon for them. The Jamaican government is developing policy reforms, financial assistance and community programs to combat elderly poverty in their country. Here are five reforms that are addressing elderly poverty in Jamaica.

1. The Solidarity Program

Dr. Andrew Holness, the Prime Minister of Jamaica, recently announced the country’s Solidarity Program during Jamaica’s 2025 – 2026 National Budget Debate. The program aims to give $20,000 grants to vulnerable citizens in the country. For this program, vulnerable citizens include 50,000 informal workers, low-income earners, marginalized groups and elderly people.

2. Long-Term Care

The Jamaican government is supporting plans the World Health Organization (WHO) proposed to prioritize the long-term care of their elderly. Dr. Christopher Tufton announced that the plans aim to expand palliative and rehabilitative services, boosting elderly participation in routine health screenings and build community-based support systems. 

The plans will be essential to the overall wellbeing of Jamaican elders due to various environmental factors playing a role in their health. There is a growing number of communicable and noncommunicable diseases running rampant in Jamaica, so the World Health Organization’s proposed plans will give seniors a better chance at combating those diseases. The proposed plans will go into effect in the long-term for Jamaica, expanding from 2025 to 2036.

3. Elderly Care and Protection Act

The Jamaican government is also drafting The Elderly Care and Protection Act in recognition of the current laws that offer limited protection to its elderly. The act aims to address the various challenges that Jamaican elderly face in the country, while also defending their rights as aging citizens.

Various reforms aimed at improving the lives of the Jamaican elderly will go into effect if the act is passed, such as legally mandating the reporting of elder abuse. It will also establish the National Elderly Care Fund, which would help subsidize the cost of living and health care for Jamaican elders.

4. New Social Housing Program

Holness also announced that the Jamaican government is increasing the budget into its New Social Housing Program. This will result in 500 units being made for vulnerable citizens in 2024-2025, which includes Jamaican elderly.

With the cost of Jamaica housing rising, it has become almost impossible for the average resident to afford shelter, especially for the elderly. Housing stability is vital for a person’s health, even as they age, so this program will be essential in combating elderly poverty in Jamaica.

5. Social Protection

The World Bank Group is supporting Jamaica’s efforts in anti-poverty, especially for the elderly. In 2024, the World Bank’s Board of Directors approved a new investment program to strengthen Jamaica’s social protection system.

The investment program includes future unemployment benefits and job placement services for the vulnerable population. These interventions, while not exclusive to elderly people, will alleviate the financial pressures on elderly caregivers and those in multigenerational households.

Global Impact

Jamaica’s response to elderly poverty offers a valuable lesson for other developing countries. The government has implemented a multi-pronged approach to resolve the country’s elderly poverty crisis. It focused on financial aid, healthcare reform, legal protections and housing stability. These reforms offer solutions that will improve the lives of the Jamaican elderly, all within the country’s budgeting and resources.

Other countries facing similar challenges can look at Jamaica’s model for addressing elderly poverty, adapting it into their own multi-pronged approach. With focused policy action and the collaboration between various organizations, aging with dignity can become a reality for many in developing countries.

– Jaden Hartfield

Jaden is based in Charlotte, NC, USA and focuses on Good News and Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Addressing Health Care and Elderly Poverty in Bahrain

Elderly Poverty in BahrainBahrain has a growing elderly population with an expanding health care system. Since the 1990s, health care has been free for all Bahraini citizens. Health care ranges from the private to public sectors in the country. Universal health care helps address elderly poverty in Bahrain by providing the elderly with free health care access.

The BTI 2024 country report said that, “Although there is no reliable data on Bahrain’s poverty rate and the extent of relative inequality, the unequal distribution of wealth remains a major concern.”

Although there has been improvements, the elderly are concerned about their finances and do not believe pensions are helping as much as they could. Due to rising prices, people are becoming dependent on families because of a lack of funds. Meanwhile, the government claims that Bahrain does not have any poverty.

Shortcomings in Health Care for the Elderly in Bahrain

One of the shortcomings in Bahraini health care is a lack of geriatricians, also known as doctors for the elderly. The country has seen an increase in the elderly population from 1981-2024.

Maria Morcos, a certified physician assistant and researcher, said, “In the Bahraini health care system, patients don’t need primary care referrals to specialists—they are able to walk in at their convenience to receive testing or imaging without prior approval.” She further said how anyone can walk in to a specialist without a referral like in the United States.

Citizens can change their provider as they wish which can cause confusion as to if one is getting better. This type of approach is what Morcos calls a “patient-centered approach.”

“A common critique of this patient-centered model of care is the fact that many patients don’t feel well-equipped with medical knowledge to know what to choose or what to do, and some prefer the provider who definitively recommends what they personally think is best,” said Morcos. 

American Mission Hospital

The nonprofit hospital in Bahrain, the American Mission Hospital, is helping citizens, including the elderly, for free. In 2024, the Ministry of Social Development partnered with the American Mission Hospital and a psychiatric hospital to give health checks to citizens 60 years and older. In 2024, the American Mission Hospital also provided educational talks and demonstrations to Bahraini citizens.

“Our community outreach programs are developed around the needs of the people in Bahrain,” said Dr. George Cherian in an interview by Amal Abdullah. “Care of the elderly, the special needs children, reach out to labor camps are some of the activities we are involved in.”

An article by ADHRB said, “Older people in Bahrain often have to deal with several issues, from access to healthcare systems and maintenance of their economic security and independence to fighting social isolation.”

Some of the American Mission Hospital sponsors are BMI Bank, Standard Chartered Bank and Rashid Group. One of the ways American Mission Hospital generates income is through an annual golf tournament, where most of the funds go towards medical supplies.

The health care information guide said, “The Ministry of Health extends its support to elderly patients through mobile units and home visits, especially for those unable to access health centers, complemented by the Ministry of Social Development‘s provision of daycare, residential care services, and social assistance for the elderly.”

Looking Ahead

The country formed a national committee for the elderly in 1984. The American Mission Hospital has recently joined the “Mayo Clinic Care Network,” giving them access to different resources. The Mayo Clinic Care Network includes different resources the hospital will be able to take advantage of experience to improve as a whole.

Bahrain continues to make improvements to health care to prevent elderly poverty in Bahrain. The Gulf Press said, “By offering incentives to civil society organizations to establish additional facilities, the Ministry aims to provide seniors with a range of services including social, health, psychological, rehabilitation, and recreational care.”

– Matthew Restrepo

Matthew is based in Milton, GA, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Elderly Poverty in South Africa: Progress and Challenges

Elderly Poverty in South AfricaElderly poverty in South Africa affects more than 5.5 million citizens, about 9.2% of the total population, according to Statistics South Africa. The legacy of Apartheid continues to impact older adults’ financial security, as multiple generations faced systematic exclusion from secure pension systems from 1948 to 1994.

Multi-generational households are common in South Africa. South Africa’s population continues to age as the country progresses through the demographic transition. Living among close family members helps the elderly substantially, as roughly one quarter of South Africa’s elderly live on less than $100 a month. White South Africans accumulated inter-generational wealth and secured retirement benefits, while the apartheid regime denied the same opportunities to Black South Africans and those of Indian descent, according to Human Rights Watch.

Pensions and Politics

Remedying the problem began before the formal end of Apartheid. Under the leadership of F.W. de Klerk, pension amounts for black South Africans increased while white pension amounts reduced. This continued until 1994 when all groups formally equalized. Although Apartheid was formally abolished, the majority of Black South Africans lacked any form of private pension or financial safety in their old age.

After the peaceful transition of power, the new democratic government led by the African National Congress began constructing and expanding the Old Age Grant, which was to become the bedrock of South Africa’s Social Security.  New amendments in 2008 equalized access by setting the age for both men and women at 60 to be able to file a claim. Adjusted for inflation, South Africa’s social grant expenditure has quadrupled since 1994. As of 2025, social assistance is a cornerstone of the welfare system, accounting for roughly 11% of the national budget. 

Dynamics of Aging

Despite these efforts, elderly poverty remains a difficult policy area to tackle as the country’s leaders have to address the current needs as well as plan for future aging. Complicating the problem are the normal occurrences of health issues as a result of aging. Aging increases the risk for chronic diseases (hypertension, diabetes, arthritis), disabilities and frailty.

In South Africa, the health system is struggling to meet geriatric care needs. Primary care clinics are free and generally available, but they are often crowded and not elderly-friendly. The state offers a Grant-in-Aid, which equates to an extra R500 per month for pensioners who require full-time care, but this amount is grossly insufficient (R500 is less than the minimum wage for just one day of a caregiver’s labor).

Gaps in Elderly Support Services

In 2025, roughly 20 years after South Africa’s Older Persons Act became effective, the state is still struggling with filling its deficits. According to a recent University of Cape Town study, the Department of Social Development (DSD) allocates only about 2% of its older persons budget to services other than the pension.

Further complications emerge due to the program’s structure. Similar to programs like Medicare in the United States (U.S.), funding for these elderly programs is dependent on the state of residence. This structure, coupled with an inefficient inter-agency entanglement that potentially jeopardizes quality of life and health care, is often the dilemma many elderly South Africans face. 

Filling the Deficits

In the current system, where government, private pensions and safety nets vastly underperform, nonprofit organizations are often the deciding factor between life and death. Fortunately, South Africa reportedly has a vibrant civil society sector that specializes in aging, stemming from church groups and charities that historically ran old age homes or feeding schemes for those excluded by Apartheid.  

Among the notable systems is the Age-in-Action (the South African Council for the Aged). Founded in 1956, it is essentially a federation of organizations for older persons. These member organizations range from big provincial NGOs (like TAFTA in KwaZulu-Natal or BADISA in Western Cape) to small local elder clubs and religious charities. Together, they provide vital services to the elderly, often with minimal resources. According to its mission, it represents more than 2.7 million older people nationwide and has at least 800 member NGOs under its umbrella.

International aid has also been crucial. The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and World Health Organization (WHO) are helping the government develop a National Strategy on Healthy Ageing, aligning with the United Nations (U.N.) Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021–2030). This strategy aims to incorporate older persons’ needs into public health planning.

At the grassroots, many communities have self-help groups for seniors. Stokvels (rotating savings clubs) among elderly women are common; they pool bits of their pension to save for emergencies or to start small vegetable gardens together. Churches also play a vital role as they often organize visits to sick elders, help with chores or run soup kitchens for the elderly. Traditional leadership structures in some rural areas also provide support. For example, chiefs might allocate a piece of communal land for an old age vegetable garden or community caregivers. 

Future of Elderly Poverty in South Africa

Addressing elderly poverty in South Africa remains a collaborative process that continues to evolve, with ongoing efforts to expand support to meet current and future needs.

– Maxwell Marcello

Maxwell is based in Pittsburgh, PA, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Elderly Poverty in The Gambia

 

Elderly Poverty in The GambiaAlthough Gambians aged 60 and above make up just 3% of the population, they face a disproportionately high risk of poverty, food insecurity and poor health outcomes — and the systems meant to support them are shrinking. Elderly poverty in The Gambia is a significant challenge, which makes up about 3.0% of the total population according to the Gambia Bureau of Statistics. HelpAge International reports that traditional family care systems in West Africa are weakening due to urban migration and economic hardship. This shift leaves many elderly Gambians vulnerable to poverty, food insecurity and limited access to basic services.

Health Care Access Challenges

One of the most critical problems for the elderly in The Gambia is limited access to health care. The country has about 0.1 physicians per 1,000 people according to World Bank health statistics. This is among the lowest rates globally, reflecting a severe shortage of medical professionals. Elders with chronic health conditions—such as hypertension and diabetes—often go without proper diagnosis or treatment, especially those living in rural areas far from medical centers.

Many elderly people in The Gambia live in the aforementioned rural areas where access to health care facilities is limited. Geographic barriers and lack of affordable transportation make it difficult for seniors to reach medical centers. These challenges often result in delayed treatment or no treatment at all. Financial constraints further worsen health care access. Many elderly Gambians lack health insurance or steady income and rely on out-of-pocket payments to cover medical expenses which can be prohibitively expensive.

Social Protection Initiatives

The Gambian government, with support from international partners, continues to strengthen social protection systems to support vulnerable populations, including the elderly. The World Bank’s Integrated Social and Economic Resilience Project (GISERP, Project ID: P1672600) and the Social Safety Net Project focus on improving social safety nets through targeted cash transfer programs that provide financial assistance to those living in poverty, including older adults. One key component of these efforts is the NAFA Program, which delivers unconditional cash transfers to vulnerable households, including many elderly and disabled beneficiaries. These programs aim to reduce elderly poverty in The Gambia and improve the quality of life by offering reliable income support. 

The Gambia partnered with the World Bank in 2019 to launch these efforts, which provide cash transfers and food assistance to more than 90,000 vulnerable households, many including elderly members. Official World Bank documents describe the project as a major step toward reducing poverty and food insecurity among vulnerable populations. Although comprehensive impact evaluations are pending, early reports suggest the program improves financial stability and nutrition for recipients. The initiative also strengthens data systems and targets support more effectively to those most vulnerable.

Challenges

While praising the NAFA Program as a “transformative initiative,” elderly beneficiary Loli Joum urged the World Bank to increase the amount of support provided. “We definitely appreciate what is being given to us, and I do not devalue the amount,” Joum told The Point. “But due to my age and health condition—as you can see, I am physically challenged and cannot do anything physically.” 

UNICEF’s work in The Gambia complements these efforts by focusing on enhancing social protection mechanisms that cover health care, education and income support for vulnerable groups. While much of UNICEF’s programming targets children and women, the agency also recognizes the growing need to address the challenges faced by the elderly population, especially as traditional care structures decline and the number of older adults rises. UNICEF has noted the importance of incorporating aging populations into broader protection frameworks to ensure that no one is left behind.

Conclusion

Elderly poverty in The Gambia is a growing concern as traditional support systems weaken and formal care remains limited. Many seniors face critical challenges related to health care, income security and social isolation—especially in rural areas where access to services is scarce. While initiatives like the World Bank’s Integrated Social and Economic Resilience Project and the Social Safety Net Project are important steps forward, gaps still remain in fully meeting the needs of the aging population. Continued investment in health care infrastructure, targeted financial support and inclusive policy planning will be essential to ensure that elderly Gambians can live with dignity, health and security in the years to come.

– Mamie Hirsh

Mamie is based in Berkeley, CA, USA and focuses on Good News and Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Transformation of Elderly Poverty in Panama

Elderly Poverty in PanamaOnce a nation where poverty cast a long shadow over its people, Panama has undergone a striking transformation since the late 20th century. In 1995, the poverty headcount ratio for all Panamanians stood at a daunting 21.1%. Over the following decades, steady progress chipped away at this figure—dropping to 14.5% by 2005, 7.7% in 2010 and 4.8% in 2015. By 2019, poverty had fallen to just 2.9%, a symbol of how far the country had come. Yet, in the years that followed, the trend began to waver. The ratio edged up to 3.3% in 2021 and 3.7% in 2023—a subtle but important reminder that even hard-won gains can be vulnerable to shifting economic tides. Still, the broader story is one of resilience, growth and the continuing pursuit of a more equitable future. Here’s information about elderly poverty in Panama and what is being done to address it.

The Influence of Non-Contributory Pension 

In Panama, the elderly make up a significant part of the population, and many are facing tough challenges. Despite efforts underway to support this community, elderly poverty in Panama continues to create harsh realities for many. With pensions often falling short, countless seniors find themselves pushed back into the workforce, not out of choice but necessity, to avoid slipping below the poverty line. Back in 2012, around 26.2% of the demographic are still working, a rate nearly twice as high as that seen in countries belonging to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development [OECD]. But the picture grows even more troubling when it becomes evident that many seniors in Latin America work in informal jobs or self-employment without access to social protections or benefits, which forces them to labor far longer. 

Fortunately, programs like the Non-Contributory Pensions (NPCs) have begun to turn the tide for elderly poverty in Panama, especially those working in the formal sector. These “social pensions” provide a vital financial lifeline to low-income seniors, offering support even when they have not contributed to traditional pension systems. The impact has been significant; it has greatly  reduced extreme poverty by 66.1% and moderate poverty by 56% among Panama’s elderly. While this program does not magically erase poverty overnight, it lays a crucial foundation for organizations to grant  older citizens a chance to live with dignity, free from the constant threat of poverty. 

“Social protection is thus a universal human right.” In line with this principle, Non-Contributory Pensions (NPCs) have seen a substantial increase in coverage across Latin America since the early 2000s. These programs have become an essential mechanism for safeguarding vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly, from the various risks and challenges associated with aging. For example, as of July 2019, Panamanian elderly individuals who qualify for these pensions receive a guaranteed minimum monthly payment of 120 balboas, providing them with critical financial support. 

Healthy Aging in Panama  

Healthy aging, which the United Nations General Assembly officially declared in 2020, represents one of the most deliberate and strategic approaches to fostering a sustainable society that supports individuals of all ages, with particular emphasis on the elderly. Panama is among the countries encompassed by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), which prioritizes transforming societal attitudes toward aging, promoting community environments that are supportive and welcoming to older adults, and implementing “person-centered care and primary health services” tailored specifically to the needs of the elderly. Additionally, PAHO focuses on ensuring adequate resources and infrastructure for long-term care to enhance the quality of life for older populations. 

In Panama, elderly individuals hold a position of great respect within the social hierarchy of their households. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial not only for nurturing strong family dynamics but also for extending their ability to participate actively in the labor market. Furthermore, good health among the elderly helps reduce medical expenses [especially for the uninsured], promotes greater autonomy, and contributes positively to broader economic growth. 

The National Plan for the Elderly

The National Plan for the Elderly 2022–2025, which Panama’s Ministry of Social Protection (MIDES) oversees, coordinates a range of programs aimed at supporting the issue with elderly poverty in Panama. This comprehensive plan centers on three key priorities: economic security, health and the creation of sustainable environments. Its objectives include ensuring access to educational benefits, reducing healthcare costs, actively monitoring the health status of older adults to prevent future complications, improving caregiving services and fostering healthier living environments where older adults can thrive. The plan involves collaborative efforts among institutions such as the Ministry of Health (MINSA) and the Panamanian Social Security Fund. 

Looking Forward  

In recent years, Panama has made significant efforts to strengthen institutions that support elderly citizens, particularly in low-income communities. With the backing of several international organizations, the country has seen notable progress in addressing pension insecurity since the early twenty-first century. A nation’s economy is deeply influenced by the choices it makes, and Panama’s commitment to caring for its aging population is a powerful example. This initiative is not only economically sound, promoting stability and growth, but also reflects a fundamental human right: the right to dignity and protection at every stage of life. 

– LaRaymee Lee

LaRaymee is based in Sugar Land, TX, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Elderly Poverty in Cameroon

Elderly Poverty in CameroonElderly poverty in Cameroon manifests in several ways. About 12.2% of male elderly heads of households and 21.4% of female elderly heads of households live in poverty. For many, accessing health care is difficult, and the country’s average life expectancy is 60. Only 3.8% of the population is 65 or older. Lack of social insurance allows elderly poverty to persist, which limits opportunities for personal development. 

Health Threats

One of the greatest consequences of elderly poverty in Cameroon is reduced access to health care. Citizens have to pay for services, and availability is often limited in the northern and eastern regions. Additionally, the people in these regions can distrust health services. The elderly are the leaders of households because families value their experience, and many elderly people dislike technology for fear that it devalues that experience.

In 2022, more than 400,000 Cameroonians were living with HIV and health facilities reported more than 9,000 new cases. The infection rate among the elderly in rural areas is 2.6%. HIV-positive Cameroonians in their prime years can struggle to support the elderly. If they die, orphans and widows must depend on the elderly for income, forcing them to continue working despite their age.

Cameroon has used rapid molecular diagnostic tests to identify TB since 2012, but health facilities only reported 24,000 TB patients in 2019, compared with the estimated average of 52,000 TB patients per year, indicating a significant diagnostic gap. In 2021, the mortality rate of TB (excluding people also infected with HIV) was 30 cases per 100,000 people.

Food security is another health concern. In a community in Yaoundé, the nation’s capital, 37.5% of the elderly were food insecure in 2024.

The Cameroonian government spends less than 5% of GDP on health care, and while the 2017 National Social Protection Policy set the goal of increasing coverage, it was unclear as to the methods that would be used.

Limited Social Insurance

As people age and become unable to work, their only source of income is social insurance, making it a necessary response to elderly poverty in Cameroon. The country’s social insurance system only covers those in the formal sector, the portion of the economy that is subject to taxes and social contributions, but the majority of the labor force works in the informal sector. Only 118,000 citizens, less than 0.01% of the population, receive a pension. Widows only receive a survivor pension if they do not have children in the workforce.

Because of this, many Cameroonians rely on family, religious institutions or tontines for support, but these are more volatile than government programs. At the moment, all government programs are contributory, and social safety nets protect 0% of the poorest quintile of the population.

Barriers To Personal Development

Government spending on education has remained at 3% of GDP for the past decade, and tertiary education receives far less funding than primary or secondary education. Along with restrictions on access to tertiary education based on gender, ethnicity or political affiliation, this hinders many Cameroonians’ ability to potentially gain certain types of jobs, which may force them into work with greater health risks and less insurance coverage through their elderly years.

Banking services are largely unavailable outside urban areas, and less than 20% of citizens have access to them. This prevents many people from saving money they can rely on as they age, which could worsen elderly poverty in Cameroon.

Solutions

Positive-Generation, a Cameroonian nonprofit, has collaborated with The Regional Centre for Research and Training in Clinical Management in Fann, Senegal, to improve care for those living with HIV over 50. They prioritize diagnosis and treatment of comorbidities, two or more medical conditions that affect a single patient at the same time. The initiative has reduced the price of drugs for high blood pressure and diabetes. Additionally, the organization has administered free care for cervical cancer and provided education and screenings for more than 1,200 people 50 or older. It also refers patients to organizations that promote healthy aging through exercise and physical therapy.

From 2009 to 2017, the World Bank Group treated 10,000 cases of tuberculosis and taught hygiene practices to avoid contraction of diseases. Health care workers in the village of Kagnol visited all households twice a month to assess health conditions. If necessary, they escort patients to nearby health care facilities.

In response to the lack of social safety nets, the Group’s International Development Association (IDA) established a cash transfers program that has benefited 85,000 households since 2013. The IDA plans to train more than 60,000 young people in entrepreneurship and business development. Training initiatives will allow them to care for themselves financially as they age. 

The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) has invested in a project to increase production of rice and onion. Furthermore, the project aims to rehabilitate land and build new crop storage facilities. The project targets 216,000 people in the northern and far northern regions. Poverty levels in these regions are particularly high, as well as northwestern and western regions. 70% of these people are adults or elderly, and the IFAD specifically focuses on those with disabilities. 

The IFAD’s Aquaculture Entrepreneurship Development Support Programme similarly identifies the elderly as a target group. The plan includes guidelines for farm contractors to reduce dust and particulates, which pose health risks for the elderly.

Looking Ahead

Many programs have effectively addressed elderly poverty in Cameroon. Improved health care access and agricultural production will continue to let the elderly support themselves. Progress in that area shows this issue can be beaten.  

– Tyler Payne

Tyler is based in Allentown, PA, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Combating Elderly Poverty in Kazakhstan

Elderly Poverty in KazakhstanDespite making a significant economic recovery since the onset of the COVID-19 crisis, Kazakhstan still faces challenges with elderly poverty. In 2024, 413,000 Kazakh citizens received assistance through the government’s Targeted Social Assistance (TSA) program, according to official data. Although TSA provides some relief, social stigma mitigates the economic impact of a program that many say still is not enough to cover basic costs. Here is more information about elderly poverty in Kazakhstan.

Lowering Poverty Rates Still Impacts the Elderly

The Asian Development Bank reported in 2023 that 5.3% of Kazakhstan’s population lived below the national poverty line. Anecdotal evidence suggests the elderly bear a substantial amount of this burden. Kazinform notes that Kazakhstan has one of the largest elderly populations in the world. 

The National Library of Medicine reported that elderly citizens in Kazakhstan face substantially higher difficulties in daily life than those who live in hospitals or care centers. 

Concerns Amid an Aging Population

In recent years, Kazakhstan’s population has seen a rise in its elderly retirees. Human Rights Watch notes that the government has coordinated with the United Nations (UN) to pioneer the Active Aging program. 

According to Kazinform, Kazakhstan’s official state news agency, the Active Aging program established centers around the country that “improve the quality of life of older people and create a new culture of aging.” The success of these centers, in coordination with the United Nations Population Fund, highlights how proper care for the elderly is not only a growing issue in Kazakhstan but a government priority.  

Though Kazakhstan has made much progress, many of its elderly citizens work side jobs to supplement their pensions and other benefits. The Targeted Social Assistance (TSA) program, Kazakhstan’s primary government program for alleviating poverty, requires participants to hold or actively seek full-time employment. 

Working a formal job is not always feasible for the elderly, and Human Rights Watch notes that many elderly citizens in Kazakhstan have taken up side jobs such as cab drivers. Speaking with the United Nations Population Fund, Aigul, 63, described how her retired husband took up driving a taxi to help her support their grandchildren. Although there is an imbalance in elderly coverage by TSA, there are also promising signs of economic growth that may contribute to long-term policy solutions. 

Promising Signs of Growth Despite Challenges 

Last year, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) reported that Kazakhstan’s real GDP grew to 5.1% in 2023. In 2024, the IMF reported that inflation dropped to 8.7%. 

The war in Ukraine poses a risk of economic uncertainty in Kazakhstan, as low oil prices and uncertain foreign investment threaten recent gains. Despite the risk, the IMF report points to signs of steady economic recovery, meaning that elderly citizens’ money can now go further to cover basic costs.

ARDAGER Improves Elderly Quality of Life 

According to HelpAge, an international nonprofit that works with the elderly, ARDAGER is a Kazakhstani NGO working with the country’s elderly citizens. The United Nations describes ARDAGER’s mission statement as to “assist senior people to improve their social status through different services.”

ARDAGER provides Kazakhstan’s elderly population with critical medical, technical and quality of life support. Kazakhstan’s growing civil society, along with government coordination with the UN, are making robust strides in addressing the challenge of poverty among Kazakhstan’s elderly. Though obstacles remain, growing attention to the issue and a stabilizing economy point to a brighter future.

Looking Ahead

Elderly poverty in Kazakhstan remains a complex problem that economic growth alone cannot solve. While government initiatives like the Active Aging program and nonprofit efforts such as ARDAGER have expanded resources and awareness, challenges like social stigma and restrictive eligibility requirements continue to limit access to aid.  Though obstacles remain, growing attention to the issue and a stabilizing economy point to a brighter future.

– Noah Frank

Noah is based in Ho Ho Kus, NJ, USA and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Elderly Poverty in Turkmenistan

Elderly Poverty in TurkmenistanDespite holding abundant gas and oil reserves, 45% of Turkmenistan’s population live below the poverty line, with 2.15% of the population, or 50,200 people, living on less than $2.15 a day. This has caused the nation to have the lowest life expectancy in Central Asia of 69.1. Between 2005 and 2021, Turkmenistan’s life expectancy rose by only 3.2 years, while life expectancy in neighboring Tajikistan rose by 5.1 years for a life expectancy of 71.29. It is in this context that elderly poverty has become an all too familiar occurrence in Turkmenistan. Here is more information about elderly poverty in Turkmenistan.

Support To Address Elderly Poverty in Turkmenistan

Elderly poverty rates are often higher than the overall population, and Turkmenistan is no exception. While specific data on this is limited, significant cuts to state pensions in 2006 may have left 300,000 people in poverty, including the elderly. Following the cutbacks, of the 229,000 people still receiving state pensions, many received no more than between £5.60 and £51 a month. This move occurred because government pension funds were already overburdened, forcing the government to dip into its currency reserves to meet the demand.

Since this occurred, state pensions have risen slightly, so the minimum one could receive is £21, but this is still not enough for most people. Furthermore, one only begins to receive their pension at the ages of 62 for men and 57 for women. While this would have relatively low pension ages in many developed countries, because of Turkmenistan’s low life expectancy, it forces people to work much later in life. This, coupled with the low payout from state pensions, leaves the elderly overburdened, forcing them to work long hours for wages that remain low.

Food Insecurity

Pensioners often have little support beyond their pensions. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the nation plunged into a food crisis. Shortages of subsidized food had been occurring since 2016, and the government lacks a strategy to solve this issue. Instead, it exacerbated the problem, going as far as to deny the existence of poverty in the country so that the most vulnerable groups did not have access to social assistance and international food standards were ignored.

In November 2019, Human Rights Watch found, based on interviews with families, that families often spent 70-80% of their money on food, with one pensioner stating that her family spent all their money on getting enough to eat. Because of the food shortages, even getting a limited amount of food involves standing in line for hours at state shops that sell the limited government-subsidized food that remains, with privately owned shops being too expensive for the majority of citizens. These stores do not seek to support the most vulnerable; instead, they broadly attempt to treat all equally, leading to long waiting lines for food, meaning stores will often close without warning after running out of supplies. Due to their age, pensioners, especially those who are single or without family support, are especially vulnerable to these shortages that have not ceased despite beginning almost a decade ago.

Logistical Problems

On top of this, since 2018, in order to receive their pensions, the elderly must prove that they are not deceased. While this may sound simple enough and a way to prevent families from stealing funds supposed to go towards a now deceased relative, the lack of logistical planning for this makes it very hard for people to prove they are alive. One can only get proper documentation to receive a pension if a doctor and three government officials have seen them. As many lack access to a doctor, this is very hard for people to do, especially without family help.

Furthermore, due to the fact that the country has been experiencing a shortage in its national currency since 2016, many are unable to withdraw cash from their funds. Often, the cash they can withdraw is too old and unusable in most shops. As the purchase of foreign currency is illegal, many are unable to use their pensions to pay for basic goods and services.

Signs of Improvement

Considering all of this, it may be surprising that Turkmenistan is in the top 20 in the world in terms of being philanthropic. However, there are no charities or NGOs directly focused on combating elderly poverty; instead, they focus on fighting poverty across all aspects of society. However, investment from the Central Asian institute has provided indirect aid for the elderly through significant investment projects.

Most crucially for the elderly is the construction of health clinics in the city of Ashgabat, as well as the construction of residential buildings. These health clinics have also received aid from UNICEF, which provided the clinics with new oxygen plants in order to provide oxygen therapy. While this form of therapy is primarily for new mothers and children, it can help provide greater care for the elderly in the hope that life expectancy will increase. While it is only a small help within the national context, it is a step in the right direction, with the Central Asian Bank currently in the early stages of a four year plan (2024-28) to make the nation’s economy more resilient. This could have a transformative effect on the thousands of elderly members of society who are struggling.

Addressing Food Insecurity

In terms of fighting food insecurity, while there is still a long way to go to solve the insecurity, some are working to fight it. One prominent NGO is Eco-Durmush, a Turkmenistan based NGO that is female lead. Its aims is to promote sustainable agriculture and organic farming techniques in local communities to protect against changing weather patterns and a lack of government aid when it comes to food. Eco-Durmus has collaborated with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to further stretch its sphere of influence. Because such local communities are often small and remote, their elderly population will rely on such business to gain the basic necessities they need. Furthermore, as Eco-Durmush is female lead, it gives a voice to elderly female members of society who without them would lack a voice that shines a light on their suffering.

Looking Ahead

The people of Turkmenistan have suffered under a regime that has been accused of countless human rights breaches and having failed to provide adequate living standards for them. Because of the totalitarian structure of government, an accurate picture of the oft-forgotten nation is hard to come by, especially on specific figures related to elderly poverty. However, from the data that one can gather, a picture forms of a nation that struggles to support its elderly and most vulnerable. With limited pensions, food and state support, the elderly have to fend for themselves in an unforgiving system, ultimately contributing to a life expectancy far lower than neighboring nations with little more wealth. However, hopefully, the efforts to improve the health system will help eliminate elderly poverty in Turkmenistan.

– Felix Hughes

Felix is based in the UK and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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Elderly Poverty in Eritrea

Elderly Poverty in EritreaEritrea, a small country in the Horn of Africa, faces significant challenges regarding elderly care and poverty. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that the elderly in Eritrea (aged 65 and above ) constitute approximately 5.4% of the population. Most elderly citizens live in rural areas with limited access to essential services.

Economic Hardship

The deterioration of traditional family support systems for the elderly in Eritrea is predominantly linked to prolonged conflict, emigration and financial constraints. Indeed, one of the primary factors for elderly poverty in Eritrea is the substantial effect of national service on family structure. Furthermore, this is compounded by the inadequate wages provided to conscripts.

In Eritrea, national service is mandatory for individuals aged 18 to 50, impacting nearly 3 million of the 6.1 million population. As of January 2020, conscripts are remunerated with a minimal monthly salary of 3,000 nakfa. The salary is equivalent to approximately $190, which fails to suffice for basic family necessities. This inadequate income may contribute to rising poverty levels among the elderly, as numerous families rely on the insufficient earnings of conscripts. Ongoing conflicts and limited opportunities have resulted in significant emigration, leaving behind elderly individuals without adequate care.

Health Care Challenges

Access to health care is a significant issue for elderly people in Eritrea. The World Health Organization (WHO) states that there are only 0.8 physicians for every 10,000 residents in the country, one of the lowest figures globally.

The Eritrean Population and Health Survey (EPHS) found that 75% of Eritreans reside within a convenient 10 kilometers of a health facility. This is a concerning reality for some elderly people who are left with the daunting task of traveling beyond this distance to reach a health care center capable of addressing their age-related health conditions. Many elderly individuals face financial hardships that prevent them from affording the necessary transportation to access essential health services.

During an advocacy meeting on aging and health from March 26 to 28, 2019, Dr. Andebrhan Tesfatsion, the acting Director General of Public Health Services, affirmed that Eritrean elderly receive respect and support from families and communities, viewing aging as a positive aspect. However, he pointed out significant challenges for healthy aging, including unprepared health systems, insufficient social support, inadequate nutrition, food security and a lack of health information systems for aging indicators.

Limited Pension Coverage

Elderly poverty in Eritrea is becoming an increasingly pressing issue, with many older adults facing significant financial hardships. One key reason for this rise in poverty is the limited effectiveness of the current social support programs available to the elderly. Unfortunately, these programs reach only a small fraction of older adults in the country. This leaves many vulnerable individuals without the assistance they desperately need.

In Eritrea, the formal social protection system for senior citizens is minimal. Official programs aimed at helping elderly individuals and pensioners account for a mere 1.8% of all national social protection initiatives. This staggering statistic highlights the lack of resources and support structures necessary to assist a growing elderly population.

According to ILOSTAT data, as of 2021, social protection covers only 8.4% of Eritrea’s overall population. This means that a vast majority of people, including the elderly, do not receive any form of social safety net. The situation is dire and many seniors struggle to meet their basic needs.

Food Insecurity

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reports that 65% of Eritrea’s population faces undernourishment, especially in rural areas where 78% live. Despite this, agriculture only contributes 14% to the country’s GDP, revealing a gap between rural conditions and economic support.  

Elderly poverty in Eritrea is a critical concern, with 37% experiencing severe food insecurity. Indeed, only 60% can secure adequate nutrition in good years, and during droughts, this drops by 25%. This fluctuation highlights the vulnerability of agricultural systems and the urgent need for sustainable solutions to improve food security and quality of life for affected populations.

Solutions

Eritrea has progressed in elderly health concerns, from basic health care access to a comprehensive strategy aligned with international frameworks like the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing. The initial program (2017-2021) established objectives and a national focal point.

Eritrea’s current strategic plan (2022-2026) sets an ambitious goal of increasing healthy life expectancy from 53.7 to 63.6 years by 2026. Furthermore, the strategic plan addresses ageism and promotes age-friendly environments under the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing. It includes enhancing community care for older adults, improving data collection on healthy aging and revising health care policies to remove the fees for seniors. A nominal hospital registration fee of 6 Nakfa applies with waivers for those in need. Additional provisions include 24-hour emergency services, medication access for major non-communicable diseases (NCDs), improved governance and regional healthy aging programs.

– Vanuza Antonio

Vanuza is based in London, UK and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project. 

Photo: Unsplash

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Addressing Elderly Poverty in Azerbaijan

Elderly Poverty in Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan’s government and international initiatives are reducing elderly poverty in Azerbaijan, but the world still needs to take more action to fight it. The Asian Development Bank estimated that Azerbaijan’s poverty rate was 5.5% in 2022, as opposed to the World Bank’s estimate of 49.6% in 2001, showing a significant decrease in poverty. However, it is not an uncommon sight to see elderly people working in manual labor well after their retirement age. Here is more information about elderly poverty in Azerbaijan including what is being done to address it.

Economy and Demography in Azerbaijan

Ever since gaining its independence in 1991, Azerbaijan has been experiencing gradual economic development efforts. Poverty rates have decreased steadily, and the country is slowly progressing into a position of economic stability despite economic challenges such as the economic crisis of 2009.

Azerbaijan’s population of 10 million is expected to increase by 8.8% by 2050 according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The International Monetary Fund (IMF) projects that Azerbaijan’s GDP will grow by 2.5% in 2025 which the IMF described as moderate growth. The percentage of those 60 years or older in Azerbaijan is 11.6% and the World Bank is expecting that the number of elderly to make up 25% of the population by 2050.

The WHO also estimated that Azerbaijan’s life expectancy has increased by 7.68 years in 2021 compared to 2000 which means that the average Azerbaijan today will live until 72.9 years rather than 65.  All of this threatens an increase in elderly poverty in Azerbaijan due to increased constraints on the pensions and benefits system.

The Pensions System and Working Age in Azerbaijan

Much of the progress that Azerbaijan has made in fighting poverty and elderly poverty in the 2000s is due to its rapid economic growth which led to reforms to the pensions system. Pensions increased from 42% of the subsistence level in 2001 to 95% in 2008, according to the European Commission for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion. This change led to a decrease in poor households. These changes were part of the reason for the elimination of poverty amongst retirees in Azerbaijan.

However, elderly poverty is still a problem in Azerbaijan despite these reforms with those 65 years-old or over and living alone among the most vulnerable groups for poverty and social exclusion according to the European Commission.

Azerbaijan continues to make progress in access to its pension system to fight elderly poverty such as the introduction of an automatic and electronic pension payment system in 2019, which led to easier access to pensions. For example, during the first eight months of 2021, authorities automatically appointed 16,299 people, representing 60.2% of all pension assignments.

The Dependency Ratio

The World Bank expects Azerbaijan’s dependency ratio to increase from 44 dependents per 100 working-age persons in 2010 to 54 dependents per 100 of the working population by 2050 with old-age being the main driver of this increase. The dependency ratio is a measure of those who work and contribute the pensions and benefits system compared to those who do not work and rely on pensions and benefits. Azerbaijan’s rising population is also primarily driven by old age and increased life expectancy with reforms to pensions being the main policy used to fight elderly poverty, meaning that Azerbaijan will need more help to ensure that its policies promote more employment in order to fight elderly poverty.

Looking Ahead

Azerbaijan has made significant strides in reducing elderly poverty, but challenges remain due to its aging population and growing dependency ratio. Economic growth and pension reforms have helped but continued efforts are still needed to ensure that Azerbaijan’s pensions system and growth plans are well-equipped for its expected demographic changes. For example, there are currently no big global NGO initiatives fighting elderly poverty in Azerbaijan.

– Takey Elbarky

Takey is based in the UK and focuses on Business and Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr