Are we preparing well for aging?
The aging population presents significant challenges and advancements, with Argentina's life expectancy increasing from 60 in 1960 to 77 today.
The aging of the population poses one of the greatest challenges of the 21st century and is also considered one of the remarkable achievements of modern society. In Argentina, life expectancy has risen significantly from 60 years in 1960 to 77 years currently, with men living an average of 74 years and women 80 years. This demographic shift results from various economic, social, political, and cultural factors, including declining fertility rates and smaller family sizes, leaving Latin America, alongside regions like Africa and the Middle East, below the generational replacement threshold according to World Bank data.
Factors contributing to aging include not only these demographic changes but also improvements in life expectancy among older populations. The conversation has shifted from merely focusing on how many years people will live to considering the quality of those years. Recent data from the Global WIN Survey, conducted in 40 countries, reveals that globally, 59% of individuals believe quality of life is more important than the length of life, indicating a growing awareness and prioritization of living well over simply living longer.
In Argentina, this context raises critical questions about the country's readiness to accommodate an older demographic through social policies, healthcare access, and community support systems. The implications of an aging population demand a reevaluation of how resources are allocated and how society views the elderly, aiming to create environments that promote healthy aging and ensure that the quality of life is maintained as people grow older.