The Sociodemographic Situation of Indigenous Peoples in Latin America and the Caribbean. Analysis in the Context of Aging and COVID-19

Abstract

In order to understand healthy aging, it is important to consider the different processes of population aging. Intertwined structural problems, ranging from marked inequalities between indigenous peoples and the non-indigenous population, territorial conflicts, and cultural aspects that include the way of perceiving and interpreting old age, aging, health, and healthy behaviors must be taken into account. This publication - The Sociodemographic Situation of Indigenous Peoples in Latin America and the Caribbean. Analysis in the context of aging and COVID-19- provides a summary of contextual information about the size, location, and distribution of the indigenous population in the countries of Latin America and the Caribbean. It focuses on the demographic aging of indigenous peoples and describes the social, economic, and cultural situation of older persons in those groups. The data, drawn from the most recent national censuses available, indicate that progress has been made in terms of recognizing the rights of indigenous peoples, and in the commitment of governments to uphold their rights. However, significant gaps still persist in the exercise of rights, an issue that is reflected in the living conditions of indigenous peoples, including older persons. The figures presented in this publication highlight the vulnerabilities and structural inequalities impacting indigenous older persons, particularly women. Indigenous peoples are among the most vulnerable groups in terms of social, economic, demographic, and cultural issues; the Decade of Healthy Aging is a good time to call for action and effective work to promote the healthy aging of indigenous populations.