Spaniards are known for their very long lifespans, and they stay extremely active well into their old age. It is very common to even see abuelas (grandmothers) and abuelos (grandfathers) running errands and being independent well into their 90s. However, some elders do feel lonely, as their children leave home or spouses pass away.
I learned about the programs that exist in Madrid to help promote social inclusion among Madrid's growing elderly population. I learned about this need through my former host mother, Rosa, and by volunteering myself.
This need exists because Spaniards have very long lifespans and live (on average) 4 years longer than people in the U.S. Additionally, Madrid is part of typically Western culture, where families live with just their immediate families. Living together in one place as an extended family is not common here. These factors create a larger number of elderly people who are lonely. This problem likely exists in many countries.
