On the boulevard of Havana, an 88-year-old woman survives by selling lollipops and soft drinks, a reflection of the institutional neglect that affects many elderly Cubans.
Her story has touched social media after two young people, identified as los fuera de rosca and exoticjewelry702, shared a video on Instagram in which they converse with her and offer help.
The woman, who lives with her grandson and works on the street from noon until the evening, explained that in a day she can sell up to 20 soft drinks, depending on what she is able to purchase.
Despite her age, she continues to go out and fight to survive, selling her products for 50 pesos each. "They stole my television, the box, both remote controls, and a blood pressure monitor that my son bought me new," she recounted sadly, reflecting the insecurity that the elderly face in Cuba.
"I do not live with communism."
The lady did not hesitate to express her discontent with the Cuban regime, which she directly blames for the misery in which she lives. "I was born in 1936, on November 16. I lived through Grau, Prío, and Batista, but I will not live under communism... If they want to imprison me, let them take me; if they want to kill me, let them kill me, I will not live under communism," she stated firmly.
He also compared Cuba of the past with the present, pointing out that before 1959, the poor "were happy" and that with just one peso, one could have lunch and dinner. "Look," he said, showing his worn-out clothes that were too large for his body, "I don't weigh a single damn pound more, damn it."
The young people who shared their story decided to give her 1,000 pesos so she could rest that day and continue selling the next day. Although at first the elderly woman was reluctant to accept the help, they insisted that she take the money. "You can go home and rest easy today, tomorrow will be another day," they said to her.
The emotional moment reflects the harsh reality faced by many Cubans, especially the elderly who, after a lifetime of hard work, have no access to a decent pension and are forced to find ways to survive on the streets, their lives marked by scarcity, neglect, and despair.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Situation of the Elderly in Cuba
How do the elderly live in Cuba currently?
The elderly in Cuba live in conditions of neglect and extreme poverty. Many have to search for food in the trash and survive on the streets due to the lack of governmental and social support. The economic crisis has worsened their difficulties, leaving them in a state of extreme vulnerability.
Why is there an increase in begging among elderly Cubans?
The begging among the elderly in Cuba has increased due to the profound economic crisis the country is experiencing. Inflation, the shortage of basic goods, and low pension salaries have left many elderly individuals without enough resources to live with dignity, forcing them to seek sustenance on the streets.
What impact does the economic crisis have on the elderly population in Cuba?
The economic crisis in Cuba severely affects the elderly population, leaving them in an extreme state of vulnerability. The lack of resources, medical and social care, along with the migration of family members, exacerbates their situation, leaving them without the necessary support to survive.
How has Cuban society reacted to the situation of the elderly?
The Cuban society has reacted with outrage and sadness to the situation of the elderly. On social media, many Cubans criticize the government for its inability to care for its most vulnerable population and lament the reality of the elderly who die without support or dignity in the streets.
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