Older Adults in Argentina: Bridging the Gap Between Needs and Policy

Healthy aging isn't one size fits all. Different regions, even within the same country, have unique needs. Argentina has policies to promote healthy aging for adults over 60, but do these policies really meet their needs? This project aims to find out. It's like trying to fit a puzzle together—the pieces are the needs, and the frame is the policy. But if the pieces don't fit, the picture isn't complete. The goal is to identify what's missing and why, so that policies can be adjusted to better support healthy aging in Argentina. Understanding the needs of older adults is crucial. It's like planning a surprise party—you need to know the guest of honor's preferences. In this case, the "guest" is the older adult population. Their needs could be anything from better healthcare access to improved social engagement opportunities. Policies that don't address these needs might as well be decorations at the wrong party. Take healthcare, for instance. One of the key needs for healthy aging is access to quality healthcare. But what if the policy focuses mainly on urban areas, leaving rural communities behind? That's a gap that needs to be filled. Another important aspect is social engagement. Older adults need to feel connected and valued in their communities. Policies that promote social activities and volunteer opportunities can make a big difference. But if these policies aren't effectively communicated or implemented, they might as well not exist. Bridging these gaps is like finding the missing puzzle pieces. It requires understanding the unique needs of the older adult population and adjusting policies accordingly. It's not just about having policies in place; it's about having the right policies that truly support healthy aging.