The difference in ageing experiences between men and women in Malta is the worst in Europe, according to a new report on active ageing.
Malta’s results in the UNECE Active Aging Index for 2014 pointed to a slight increase in the overall experience of active ageing, where the country has moved one place up and is now ranked 18th in Europe.
However, the report also singled out Malta and Cyprus for specific criticism over gender disparity.
The report tracks the experience of older men and women in all European countries across four domains: employment; social participation; independent, healthy and secure living; and capacity and enabling environment for active ageing.
Malta fared worst in Europe across the four domains, particularly in employment opportunities for older women, although it was also the only country in Europe where women had better results than men in terms of independent living.
The report did note that the results could point to cultural preferences for certain activities in old age, with women in some countries leaving the labour market earlier but remaining active in their social contribution to society, such as by taking care of grandchildren.
While it acknowledged that active living in old age was already a reality in many parts of Europe, it said greater policy efforts were required to fully mobilise the potential of active ageing in EU countries and called for a greater focus on policies to reduce gender disparity.
Active Ageing Parliamentary Secretary Justine Caruana welcomed Malta’s overall improvement in the index, which, she said, was achieved after the implementation of the National Strategy for Active Ageing.
Dr Caruana said the government had this year implemented a law against abuse on the elderly, worked consistently on the improvement of the St Vincent de Paul residence and launched several lifelong learning programmes in day care centres.
“The government’s job in the elderly sector will remain focused on ensuring a better quality of life and better community services. All of this will lead to a more active and independent life,” she said.