Across Latin America and the Caribbean, deaths are rising again as the second wave of coronavirus spreads across the region.
Like many countries around the globe, most countries in Latin America and the Carribean ordered a mandatory quarantine or lockdown. Although these measures are necessary they bring additional risks, especially for socially isolated older people living alone or those who depend on others to some degree.
There are even greater risks for older people living on the street, older migrants and others who live in informal settlements such as migrants and internally displaced people.
Our work across the region is focused on raising awareness around particularly vulnerable older people whose specific needs are being ignored. We will build evidence to support and campaign for those at risk at this critical time.
The reinforcement of stereotypes and manifestations of ageism were identified early on, especially in the language of the government and the media and actions of humanitarian actors and health workers.
Ageism is always a challenge, during this specific crisis it runs the risk of resulting in reduced access to healthcare for older people, as well as negative and derogatory stigma, among other damaging impacts.
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