In a heartbreaking display of the abandonment suffered by the elderly in Cuba, Irina Peña Paz, an 80-year-old woman, lives in inhumane conditions in her home located in the city of Guantánamo.
Her home, marked by decay, is infested with rodents that roam freely among the furniture and around her while she eats or tries to rest.
The elderly woman, who survives on an insufficient retirement pension, relies on the solidarity of her neighbors for food and to meet her basic needs. However, they also face economic difficulties and can only provide her with assistance within their limited means.
"Despite the constant complaints from their neighbors to government entities, they have been unable to resolve their critical problem," reported independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta on Facebook.
Mayeta shared a video showing the elderly woman sitting in a broken armchair, eating a plate of food that a neighbor brought her. Meanwhile, the rodents walk freely through the room, crawling under the furniture and passing between her feet, with her unable to do anything to stop them.
Irina Peña Paz lives at 653 A Luz Caballero Street, between Narciso López and Paseo, in Guantánamo, and her story is just one among many that reflect the precarious fate of elderly people in Cuba.
This case highlights the plight of many elderly individuals in Cuba, a problem exacerbated by the economic crisis and the regime's neglect of the most vulnerable sectors of society.
While the State ignores these realities, thousands of elderly people face misery, loneliness, and abandonment on a daily basis.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Situation of the Elderly in Cuba
How do pests affect the elderly in Cuba?
Pests, such as rodent infestations, exacerbate the already precarious living conditions of many elderly people in Cuba. The lack of government attention to address these sanitation issues increases the suffering of the elderly, as seen in the case of Irina Peña Paz in Guantánamo.
Why do many elderly people in Cuba live in conditions of misery?
Many elderly people in Cuba live in conditions of misery due to a combination of lack of state support, insufficient pensions, and economic crisis. This situation is exacerbated by the lack of basic resources and the migration of family members who could provide them with support.
What impact does the economic crisis have on the lives of elderly Cubans?
The economic crisis in Cuba has led to inflation and a shortage of basic products, which severely impacts the elderly, who rely on minimal pensions to survive. The lack of cash and resources exacerbates their economic and social situation, leaving many in a state of extreme vulnerability.
What actions can citizens take to help vulnerable elderly people in Cuba?
Citizens can join local support initiatives, such as d donating food, clothing, and medicine, or participating in the distribution of these resources. Solidarity is crucial to improving the living conditions of homeless elderly individuals and meeting the immediate needs of this neglected group.
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