Envejecimiento Saludable, ¿se pueda alcanzar en Puerto Rico?

Summary

In this episode of 'Mira Demográfica,' demographer Raúl Figueroa discusses Puerto Rico's development of a healthy aging plan. Led by the Department of Health and other governmental agencies, the initiative aims to improve the quality of life for the elderly through various strategies. The episode highlights Puerto Rico's aging population, its low birth rates, and high life expectancy. The plan addresses chronic disease prevalence, healthy environments, intergenerational integration, and the need for better healthcare and caregiver support. Figueroa emphasizes the importance of preparing for an aging society to ensure long-term benefits for all generations.

Takeaways

• 🌍 Puerto Rico is developing a healthy aging plan led by the Department of Health, along with other government agencies and private entities.
• 👵 Puerto Rico has one of the highest percentages of people aged 60 and over in the world, making it one of the oldest populations globally.
• 📊 Puerto Rico's life expectancy is nearly 81 years, with women having an even higher life expectancy of 85 years.
• 📉 The island has a very low fertility rate, contributing to a population structure where older generations outnumber younger ones.
• ⚕️ Chronic diseases like arthritis, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer are prevalent among people over 60 in Puerto Rico, and the plan aims to reduce these rates.
• 💡 One of the main goals of the plan is to shift societal perceptions of aging, emphasizing that older people can continue to contribute significantly to society.
• 🏙️ The plan seeks to create age-friendly cities with better infrastructure, such as accessible sidewalks and transportation, to support the elderly in staying active and engaged.
• 👩‍⚕️ Improving healthcare services, including primary care and specialized treatment for the elderly, is a key focus, as Puerto Rico faces a shortage of medical professionals.
• 👩‍👧‍👦 Long-term care is another focus, with efforts to support both formal caregivers and informal ones, such as family members, who often experience high levels of stress.
• 🛠️ The plan highlights the need for continuous monitoring and evaluation to ensure its goals are being met, acknowledging the challenges posed by Puerto Rico's financial crisis.

Q & A

What is the main goal of Puerto Rico's plan for healthy aging?

The main goal of Puerto Rico's healthy aging plan is to improve the quality of life for people as they age, allowing them to grow old in good health while addressing chronic health issues and creating a more age-friendly environment.

Which government agencies are leading the development of Puerto Rico's healthy aging plan?

The Department of Health is leading the initiative, along with other agencies such as the Department of Family, the Department of Recreation and Sports, and the Planning Board. Additionally, non-governmental entities like the Medical Sciences Campus are also involved.

Why is it particularly important for Puerto Rico to implement a plan for healthy aging?

Puerto Rico has one of the oldest populations in the world, with a high percentage of people aged 60 and above. Additionally, Puerto Rico has a low birth rate and high life expectancy, creating an aging population structure that requires attention.

What is the life expectancy in Puerto Rico, and how does it compare for men and women?

The life expectancy in Puerto Rico is about 81 years on average. For women, it is significantly higher, around 85 years, placing Puerto Rico among the countries with the highest life expectancy, especially in the Caribbean.

What are some of the chronic diseases prevalent among Puerto Rico's aging population?

Common chronic diseases affecting Puerto Rico’s older population include arthritis, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. The healthy aging plan aims to reduce the prevalence of these conditions over time.

What are the five main areas of action in Puerto Rico's healthy aging plan?

The five areas of action include: 1) combating ageism, 2) creating age-friendly environments, 3) providing person-centered integrated care, 4) supporting long-term caregivers, and 5) monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of the plan.

How does the plan aim to address the issue of ageism in Puerto Rico?

The plan aims to change how people perceive aging by promoting greater awareness about aging and discouraging the notion that older people automatically become a burden on society. It emphasizes that older adults can still contribute significantly.

What challenges exist in Puerto Rico's cities that hinder age-friendly environments?

Challenges include poor infrastructure such as broken sidewalks and insufficient transportation options. Many cities are not designed to accommodate older adults, making it difficult for them to engage in daily activities like shopping, exercising, or visiting the doctor.

What is the significance of long-term care support in the healthy aging plan?

The plan emphasizes improving long-term care by enhancing training for formal caregivers and supporting informal caregivers, many of whom are women with full-time jobs. It aims to reduce stress and provide better care for aging individuals.

What concerns are raised regarding the feasibility and timing of the healthy aging plan in Puerto Rico?

There are concerns that Puerto Rico may have started the plan too late, as the aging population and healthcare system are already facing significant challenges. Additionally, questions about funding and the impact of fiscal oversight on the plan's implementation are raised.