Published
Colombia has the potential to become a model for how societies can thrive when people of all ages are included.
A new study by HelpAge International shows that creating age-friendly cities and communities can not only improve the lives of older people by reducing their experiences of ageism, but strengthen wellbeing, social cohesion, and equality for everyone.
For the first time in Latin America, a study has used the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Ageism Scale to explore how ageism and urban design affect older people’s health and wellbeing. Conducted in partnership with five universities in Colombia and the UK (Universidad Los Libertadores in Bogotá, Universidad del Tolima in Ibagué, Universidad de Cartagena in Cartagena de Indias, Universidad Simón Bolívar in Barranquilla and University of Edinburgh) and HelpAge network member the Colombian Network for Active and Decent Ageing, the research placed older people’s voices at the heart of its findings.
Older Colombians shared how urban environments can either hold them back or help them flourish. When public spaces are accessible, transport is reliable, and information is easy to find, older people report better health, stronger social connections, and higher life satisfaction. In other words, when cities work for older people, they work better for everyone.
We believe that every older person should be able to face their future with confidence, reach their potential and play a full part in the society they live in.
Every older person is a valued member of society who has the right, whatever their support needs, to participate in their families, communities and society, based on what is important to them.
