RSU represents Latvia in international survey on population ageing

As results of the international Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) show, the quality of life of elderly people, and their health and welfare are closely related to socioeconomic circumstances in childhood. The study analyses the impact of population ageing on economics, employment, healthcare, social policy and other factors that determine the development of the country. From 5 to 7 September, researchers representing 28 European countries and Israel met in the Small Guild in Rīga. Survey-related activities in Latvia are funded and coordinated by Rīga Stradiņš University (RSU).

“Representing Latvia in the international project, RSU has undertaken leadership in solving issues associated with public ageing and consequently with people’s quality of life, healthcare and social assistance both in Latvia and the European Union. Survey results from Latvia will provide an insight into various aspects of life of the community and will serve as an important source of information for policy makers involved in making decisions on healthcare, retirement and social assistance programmes,” emphasises RSU Vice-Rector for Science Agrita Kiopa. “People are the core value at RSU, thus, all aspects of the quality of life are of great importance in our work. We have put much effort into this research and are certain that it will serve as a solid foundation in the planning of evidence-based healthcare and social policy.”

The study reveals that poor socio-economic conditions in childhood often have a negative impact on physical and mental health in old age. Stress undergone during political and economic changes after the fall of the Berlin Wall left an impact on health for a part of the population residing in Central and Eastern Europe, and these consequences are felt the most in old age. The study shows that stress arising from health and social problems is reduced by an active inclusion policy enabling elderly people to participate in various public organisations, activities and processes.

“This study is unique because of its multinational character and its engagement of a wide spectrum of professionals. Economists, sociologists, healthcare and social policy experts representing various countries analyse differences in Europe, as well as provide recommendations for solving problems associated with the gradual ageing of the population in Europe”, said SHARE coordinator Annette Scherpenzeel.

Lo far, the results reveal that elderly people suffer from not only physical but also mental illness, such as depression. Its spread across Europe is uneven and often is associated with employment opportunities in old age. The inability to find a suitable job, followed by forced early retirement is the cause of various diseases. Northern European countries with a higher level of education and welfare stand out with a comparatively small percentage of mental illness cases in elderly people. In post-Soviet states this number is higher.