In the current context of Puerto Rico, the outlook for the elderly raises serious questions about the dignity of their daily lives. With a subsistence minimum wage of over $1,800 per month, contrasted with the neighboring Dominican Republic, where the cost of living ranges from $338 to $606 per month, the disparity is alarming. On the island, social security beneficiaries barely receive around $1,013 a month, a figure that places the elderly below the threshold of the minimum income required for a dignified life.
The reality is blunt: living in Puerto Rico is becoming more and more expensive. The constant increase in the cost of living coupled with legislation that seems to benefit mainly the wealthier sectors submerges Puerto Ricans in a sea of debt and financial hardship. For those who have reached the golden age, one would expect their concerns to be focused on taking care of their health and enjoying the fruits of their labor, however, the reality is different.
The data are revealing: in 50 municipalities on the island, four out of six households are home to the elderly. This growing population over the age of 65 is in a situation of helplessness and vulnerability. Faced with this panorama, an inevitable question arises: are Puerto Rico's elderly living a dignified life?
The answer is not simple. Although programs and services aimed at this population have been implemented, the economic and social reality of the country poses significant challenges. It is imperative that concrete steps be taken to ensure that the elderly can live in dignity, with access to adequate health services, affordable housing and economic security. Only in this way can we ensure that the golden age will truly be a period of well-being and enjoyment for all Puerto Ricans.
We need a system of solidarity and dignity for our elderly!