Factores socioeconómicos asociados a la calidad de vida de los adultos mayores del barrio Buenos Aires de Camilo Ponce Enríquez

Abstract

The research work titled Socioeconomic Factors Associated with the Quality of Life of Older Adults in the Buenos Aires Neighborhood of Camilo Ponce Enríquez has the general objective of identifying the socioeconomic factors associated with the quality of life of older adults in the Buenos Aires neighborhood of Camilo Ponce Enríquez canton. This study arises from the need to make visible a population group historically excluded from local public policies, whose vulnerable situation impacts their living conditions, making them more precarious due to various factors such as: low education levels, lack of access to stable income, health services, adequate housing, and limited community integration. The research was developed under a mixed methodological approach, applying tools such as: a census of older adults, semi-structured interviews with local authorities, and direct observation. The results show that while there are some basic services available in the neighborhood—such as drinking water and public healthcare—other essential rights, such as access to social security, economic inclusion programs, decent housing, and cultural participation, are limited or non-existent for many older adults. Furthermore, it was confirmed that the coverage of institutional programs executed by entities such as the Ministry of Economic and Social Inclusion (MIES) and the Municipal GAD is insufficient and lacks sustainability, as the older adults surveyed expressed feeling excluded from community spaces, with no opportunities for continued learning or expression of their knowledge and culture. In response to this reality, the study proposes a concrete intervention: an adapted educational project that strengthens citizen participation centers and implements an inclusive cultural offering aimed at this age group. The project seeks to promote active aging through educational, recreational, and cultural activities with a gerontological focus, fostering social integration, self-esteem, and autonomy among older adults. In this way, the need is raised to coordinate interinstitutional efforts between the Municipal GAD and MIES to ensure effective, sustainable implementation centered on human rights.