Poverty Effects on Elder's Lives in Latin American Countries

Seminar paper from the year 2013 in the subject Sociology - Old Age, grade: A, University of Canberra, language: English, abstract: Of all the existing third world regions, Latin America is considered the most developed, yet economic disparities that result in poverty and absolute poverty persist (Preston, 1996). Venezuela, Columbia, Bolivia, Argentina, Brazil, and Peru many more others are some the most adversely affected by poverty issues. But who does poverty affect the most?, According to many studies conducted regarding poverty, it has been found to affect mostly women, children and the elderly, the elderly of course, having to suffer the most because of the inability to generate income. What effects does poverty have on the elderly in Latin America? It is really a problem that has degenerated into a world concern, with policy makers getting more concerned with the increasing population of the aging (Cotlear, 2010). In order to fully understand the effects of poverty on the elderly in Latin America, specific countries such as those mentioned before, will be analyzed- their economic dispositions, besides their role in this particular problem. The general poverty level in South America is something of world importance as it affects the general well being of the world economy. Specifically, this research paper will endeavor to address the effects of poverty on the elderly and mention possible solutions to this pressing problem. The method of data collection to be used during the research will feature qualitative and quantitative analysis. This will better enable the researcher present firsthand findings and evaluations of the problem and its effects. Considering the importance of this problem to the whole world, the implications of the findings will not only affect Latin America as a region alone, but the whole world, because poverty levels among the elderly in South America, ultimately contribute to the increasing world inflation. It is also wise to project other problems that may arise from ignoring this problem. Drugs and drug abuse which have been a common pestilence in Latin America especially Mexico, may never be prevailed over if poverty among the elderly as an issue is not addressed appropriately.