The rapid aging of Mexico’s population is expected to bring about major social and economic challenges, particularly in healthcare. According to Isalia Nava Bolaños, a researcher at the National Institute of Economic Research at UNAM, Mexico’s aging process is advancing much faster than in European countries. While it took European nations over two centuries to undergo similar changes, Mexico is expected to do so in less than four decades.
Mexico’s Growing Aging Population
Mexico’s population is aging rapidly, following a global trend seen in places like Hong Kong. In 1970, the population aged 65 and older represented just 3.7% of the total population. By 2000, this number had risen to 5%, and in 2020 it reached 7.7%, which amounted to 9.9 million people. Projections by the National Population Council estimate that by 2050, the percentage will grow to 18.2%, or 26.8 million people. This rapid increase poses a challenge, as Mexico has far less time than other countries to address the needs of its aging population.
Aging Mexico: Challenges and Solutions in Healthcare
The aging population raises significant concerns about the rise of chronic degenerative diseases and disabilities, which require long-term and expensive treatments, putting immense pressure on the healthcare system. Nava Bolaños emphasized that in response, public policy and funding mechanisms need to be revised. Furthermore, adapting healthcare services, such as incorporating home-based care, can help address these challenges.
Economic disparities among older adults also add complexity. Many elderly individuals in vulnerable socioeconomic situations face barriers to accessing healthcare, with 35% of them reporting no health-related spending, according to the 2022 National Survey of Household Income and Expenditure (ENIGH). Some of these individuals are impoverished or work informally, which restricts their access to healthcare.
Promoting a healthy and active aging process, while reducing the costs of certain medications and investing in technology for at-home care, can significantly alleviate the financial burden on the healthcare system. Additionally, long-term care insurance beyond basic healthcare could become essential, especially as the prevalence of chronic conditions requiring specialized, extended care rises.
Prevention and Long-Term Planning
Nava Bolaños also stressed the importance of “creating” health in the country, focusing on prevention. By preparing the future generations of elderly with better living conditions and preventive healthcare, Mexico can significantly reduce the costs of treating diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. Ensuring adequate pensions, sufficient income, and economic security for the elderly will also help them access the healthcare and care they need.
