May ends with announcements of changes to Social Security benefits, marking the conclusion of Older Americans Month in the United States, which since 1963 has been proclaimed a time to hold various activities recognizing the contributions of older adults to society.
By Omaira Martínez Cardona – Colombian Journalist
“When my hair turns completely white, I’ll wear a wig to cover the gray I don’t like,” says an older woman whose face and unhurried gait already reflect her more than 85 years. As she resists the passage of time, I remembered Miss Carol, a beautiful, flirtatious, and vain elderly woman who was the envy of all the young women who came to the beauty salon. They admired the pride and joy with which she carried her more than 90 years, always accompanied by her gallant boyfriend, two years her senior.
May ends with announcements of changes to Social Security benefits, marking the conclusion of Older Americans Month in the United States, which since 1963 has been proclaimed a time to hold various activities recognizing the contributions of older adults to society.
Aging with dignity goes beyond the marks left by the years lived, which, without exception, will affect us all. That is why each year should be celebrated with joy and gratitude. Reaching one’s 60s and being classified as an older adult should be a source of pride for the path traveled, the experiences lived, and the legacy left behind. It is a new stage to embark on the final stretch with greater peace and happiness.
According to global statistics, this year the world’s older adult population continues to grow, as do the social programs that benefit them. Projections estimate that by 2050, the percentage of people over 60 worldwide will double, and the population over 80 will triple. In Latin America, population aging indicators estimate that by 2030, there will be more people over 60 than under 15.
As I always reiterate, the numbers are not meant to cause concern but to inform about the need to protect both older adults and the newly born population. Regardless of culture or country of residence, older adults deserve to age with dignity, with public policies that guarantee their health and basic needs are met, to prevent the abandonment that unfortunately still affects many at the end of their lives.
Older adults should be prioritized with as many social programs as possible. That is why the announcement of potential cuts to Social Security benefits is unsettling, due in part to student loan debts, as announced by the national Department of Education. The federal government could withhold up to 15% of Social Security payments, provided the monthly check is not reduced below $750, through the Treasury Offset Program (TOP).
One of the greatest desires of all people is to reach old age with clarity, well-being, and health to enjoy family with peace and joy, like Miss Carol. May it be so.
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