The challenge of aging in the Peruvian Andes

Conclusion

It seems clear that without drastic action to curb forces such as the out-migration of the young, the condition of the rural elderly in Peru will only worsen. While resources are just beginning to be marshalled to meet some of the needs of the urban elderly, it is unlikely that governmental resources will soon become available to address the needs of the rural aged. Further, longstanding historical divisions based on race and ethnicity permeate the Andes, perpetuating inequities in the delivery of health and social services.

Under these circumstances, the most practical recommendation that can be made is to augment resource availability by working with existing resources which profess an interest in the elderly, such as health workers, “club de madres” and the Catholic church. Closer collaboration between these groups holds the promise of providing a more effective support network for the elderly of the Peruvian sierra.