By Euro Weekly News Media • Published: 10 Sep 2015 • 8:38
SPAIN has fallen in the world rankings for seniors’ well-being, according to the Aging Global Index ‘AgeWatch’ 2015 study released by HelpAge International.
The report, which was created using data collected by the United Nations and other institutions, claims that the austerity measures have been the biggest ‘blow’ for the well-being of older residents in Europe and North America.
“Even though most countries have pursued state regulations for those reaching an older age, the financial crisis of 2008 – followed by austerity measures – delivered a serious blow to pensions and cuts in services for many seniors,” said the study.
To measure the well-being of seniors, the AgeWatch Index has measured four criteria, namely, health, income, personal abilities and quality of life in an appropriate setting. After analysing all these factors, Spain has been ranked four positions lower, dropping to 25th out of the 92 countries analysed.
However, there are still positive elements. Spain went from 41st position to 37th in terms of income security and health, where the country has one of the most noteworthy results as the expectancy of life is on average 83-years-old, the highest in the entire European Union thanks, according to the study, to the strength of a universal and public health care system. Spain also ranks highly for safe environment, as the study shows 86 per cent of seniors have close family or acquaintances to help them in their daily life and 68 per cent said they feel safe when walking around the streets.
Switzerland has been ranked first this year, followed by Norway. Afghanistan is in last position.
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