Violation of human rights in the protection of older adults in Ecuador
Keywords:
Violation of rights, social protection, older adults, public policies, quality of lifeAbstract
Population aging presents significant challenges in guaranteeing the human rights of older adults, especially in contexts where public policies and social services have deficiencies. This study aimed to evaluate the violation of human rights of older adults in the Ministry of Economic and Social Inclusion (MIES) of Babahoyo and propose strategies to improve their protection and quality of life. A descriptive study with a community design was conducted, using an observational, cross-sectional, and prospective approach. Data collection was carried out through a survey applied to a convenience sample of 37 older adults. The results showed deficiencies in access to health services, with 70.2% of respondents disagreeing with their adequacy, as well as a negative perception regarding the effectiveness of public policies (64.8%) and the sufficiency of economic resources (70.2%). Additionally, 43.2% considered age discrimination a significant problem, and 75.6% stated that health insurance coverage is inadequate. The conclusions highlight the need to strengthen staff training, improve health infrastructure, expand insurance coverage, implement monitoring mechanisms, and foster community support networks. The articulation of efforts between the state, the private sector, and civil society is essential to ensure a dignified old age and the effective respect of the rights of older adults.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Shirley Carolay Minta-Araujo, Lisbeth Isabel Santillan-Castillo, Vanessa Josefa Hernández-Alvarado
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