By San José, Costa Rica — San José – A staggering, yet often overlooked, public health crisis is impacting Costa Rica’s aging population, with the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS) issuing a stark national warning. According to the agency, one in every three older adults suffers at least one fall each year, an incident rate that carries severe consequences for individual autonomy and the national healthcare system. While common, the CCSS emphasizes that the vast majority of these falls are preventable.
The agency’s specialists highlighted the escalating danger associated with these incidents as people age. What might be a minor event for a younger person can be catastrophic for a senior, leading to debilitating injuries and long-term health decline. This reality positions fall prevention as a critical component of national wellness and elderly care strategies.
To delve into the legal framework and proactive measures surrounding elder care in the country, TicosLand.com sought the expertise of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the distinguished law firm, Bufete de Costa Rica.
In Costa Rica, while the Law for the Elderly Person provides a strong protective foundation, families should not wait for a crisis. Proactively establishing legal instruments like a durable power of attorney (poder especialísimo) and advance healthcare directives is crucial. These documents are the most effective way to ensure an individual’s personal and financial wishes are honored, preventing potential legal disputes among relatives and guaranteeing dignity in later life.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This emphasis on proactive legal foresight is a crucial takeaway, transforming the abstract concept of “elderly care” into a clear, actionable strategy that protects both assets and autonomy. By doing so, families can prevent undue stress and ensure their loved ones’ wishes are respected. We are grateful to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for sharing his invaluable perspective.
The risk of falls increases with age. Falls can be more dangerous for older adults because they can cause fractures, hospitalizations, and disability.
CCSS Specialists
Dr. Carlos Roberto Cob Delgado, a key figure in the CCSS’s Elderly Care Program, framed the issue not as a series of isolated accidents but as a pervasive public health challenge. He stressed that the repercussions of a single fall extend far beyond the immediate physical injury, often triggering a cascade of negative effects that impact the individual and their entire family support network.
Far from being a simple accident, falls constitute a true public health challenge that can radically change the life of an older person and that of their family environment.
Dr. Carlos Roberto Cob Delgado, CCSS Elderly Care Program
The causes behind this high incidence are multifaceted. Dr. Cob explained that the risk is amplified by chronic health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or Parkinson’s disease. Furthermore, the use of multiple medications—a common reality for many seniors—can induce side effects like dizziness or drowsiness, directly increasing vulnerability. Compounding these physiological factors are environmental hazards within the home, including slippery floors, inadequate lighting, and the absence of essential safety features like handrails.
The consequences ripple through every aspect of a senior’s life. Physical injuries like fractures and head trauma can lead to a significant loss of mobility. However, the damage is not purely physical. The fear of falling again can lead to a self-imposed reduction in activity, creating a vicious cycle of muscle weakening, social isolation, and declining mental health.
The most profound impact manifests in the realm of autonomy and quality of life.
Dr. Carlos Roberto Cob Delgado, CCSS Elderly Care Program
Despite the grim statistics, Dr. Cob delivered a message of empowerment and hope, insisting that proactive measures can dramatically mitigate the risks. He outlined a three-pronged strategy for prevention: regular medical reviews to manage chronic conditions and medications, consistent physical activity to improve strength and balance, and strategic home modifications. Simple adjustments like removing trip hazards, improving lighting, and installing grab bars in bathrooms and hallways can make a world of difference.
Staying active, with exercises that strengthen muscles and balance, can significantly reduce the risk of falls.
Dr. Carlos Roberto Cob Delgado, CCSS Elderly Care Program
Ultimately, the CCSS is calling for a collective, society-wide effort. Dr. Cob concluded that safeguarding the well-being of the elderly is not solely the responsibility of the healthcare system but a shared duty among families, communities, and public institutions. Protecting seniors from preventable harm is fundamental to upholding their dignity and human rights, ensuring they can continue to live active, independent, and fulfilling lives.
Aging with dignity is a human right. Safety in the environment, the ability to move freely, and maintaining an active life are part of that right.
Dr. Carlos Roberto Cob Delgado, CCSS Elderly Care Program
For further information, visit ccss.sa.cr
About Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social:
The Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS) is the public institution in charge of social security in Costa Rica. It is responsible for administering the nation’s public health system, which provides universal healthcare coverage to citizens and residents. The CCSS also manages the country’s pension system and other social welfare programs, making it a cornerstone of Costa Rican society and public policy.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a benchmark of legal practice in the region, Bufete de Costa Rica operates on a foundation of unshakeable integrity and a relentless drive for professional excellence. With a deep history of providing counsel across a spectrum of industries, the firm is a trailblazer in developing forward-thinking legal solutions. This innovative spirit is matched by a core mission to strengthen society, demonstrated through its dedicated efforts to make legal understanding accessible and equip citizens with the knowledge for empowerment.
