Serbia’s population is among the oldest populations globally, with the tendency of further intensive aging due to low birth rate, fertility problems and brain drain. This was it was stated in a study on the situation and social inclusion of elderly persons, conducted by the Red Cross Serbia and the network of civil society organizations, Humana S.
“The analysis of older women and men in Serbia, different aspects of their position in the society, and living conditions shows that their status is relatively unfavourable, compared to older people living in the European Union,” the study adds.
According to the collated data, in 2016, the population aged 65 and over made up 19% of the total population, of which only 15% were employed.
In addition, according to the study, gender differences are noticeable, so the employment rate for men was 19.5%, and for women, 9.6% percent.
The study also showed that it is necessary to improve access to health services and to expand the capacities of treatment and care of the elderly in home conditions.
In the 12 months preceding the research on the use of information technology, only 17% of the population aged 65 and over uses a computer, which is significantly lower compared to the same age group in the EU, where this percentage is as high as 52.
“This is the sixth big research that the Red Cross Serbia has implemented in order to improve the position of the elderly in the Republic of Serbia, because only through the collection and analysis of data we can clearly see the needs and problems the elderly are facing. Based on that we will put together recommendations for improving their status”, said Vesna Milenovic, Secretary General of the Red Cross Serbia.
The research on the social inclusion of older people is based on statistical data from official records as well as available data, taking into account their material conditions, access to resources and services, social participation and social networks, leisure time, lifestyles, culture and communication, quality of life and subjective satisfaction.
(Politika, 05.02.2018)
http://www.politika.rs/sr/clanak/397817/Stanovnistvo-Srbije-medu-najstarijim-a-starenje-tek-sledi
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