An Overlook at Aging among the Cuban Population. National Survey of Aging. Results ENEP-2017

Abstract

Introduction. Cuba has 20,8 % of its population with 60 years or more, a number relatively homogeneous in all its territories, with an increasing tendency in the course of time and in the perspective. This research constitutes the baseline for the first longitudinal study in older people in Cuba. Its objective is updating and completing the informative and scientific base about the characteristics and evolution of the aging process of the Cuban population, by considering the study of aspects such as demographic characteristics, socioeconomic conditions, state of health, of residence, among other aspects, regarding people of 50 years and more, with a particular insight toward the old and very old population. Besides, the study seeks creating suitable methodological conditions that allow for establishing the baseline for a follow-up and evaluating in time the aging process of people that today are 50 years old and more and, in the near future, will make up the senescent population of the country. Methods. The study covered the entire country. A sample design was carried out for a longitudinal study, with a probabilistic sampling by Stratified Three-Stage Conglomerates. The information was obtained by direct interview and the data collected was validated. Results. The median age is 62 years and the female index was 1,144, increasing with age and in urban areas, where 78,6 % of the Cuban elderly live. Almost half of the people are single, and men receive more income than women do. Most people perceive their health as fair or poor, and more than half suffer from at least two chronic diseases. Almost half of people aged 60 to 74 are robust, but frailty and pre-frailty increase with age and in women. The majority of older people are independent, although dependency increases with age and in women. The group of 75 years and over barely exceeds 50 % in physical activities, especially women. At any age, men are more involved in volunteer activities. The aid they receive does not vary significantly according to age. By sex, it is observed that women perceive this aid in a higher proportion than men do. Both men and women receive more help with increasing age and less help from older people. As some conclusions at any age, women are more likely to succumb to diseases, perceive their health as poor, and be dependent. This gender gap must be taken into account in public policies on aging. Society could benefit more from the help that older people provide. The possibility of identifying the people who are at greater risk of being affected by an adverse event allows for greater equity and efficiency of actions to be achieved, prolonging independence and well-being.