The Ministry of Health announced on March 20 that the creation, operation, and maintenance of Comprehensive Care Centers for Older Adults (CECUIDAM) has been declared a matter of public interest. The initiative aims to expand support and services for older adults across the country.
This move is significant as it seeks to provide safe spaces where older adults can maintain their health, autonomy, and well-being. The centers will offer daytime care or home support for those living in poverty or economic vulnerability.
Services at CECUIDAM will include nutritional attention and meal plans, physical and occupational therapy, psychological support, cognitive and sensory stimulation, recreational activities, cultural and spiritual programs, as well as opportunities for intergenerational interaction. Home-based recipients will also receive professional assessments, therapeutic plans, and nutritional assistance tailored to their needs.
The declaration also aims to promote respect, social inclusion, and dignity for older adults while encouraging collaboration among public institutions, local governments, private organizations, and communities to ensure the sustainability of these centers. As part of this effort, at least one CECUIDAM is planned for each canton in the country. Currently there are 12 such centers nationwide with five more expected to open soon.
Costa Rica is advancing its strategy of Age-Friendly Cities to increase social participation opportunities for seniors and promote healthy aging without discrimination or poverty. There are already 51 age-friendly cities throughout all provinces. Projections show that by 2050 one in four Costa Ricans will be an older adult—growing from about 600,000 today to over 1.3 million—prompting continued policy development focused on improving quality of life for this population.
The Ministry of Health will coordinate with the National Council for Older Adults (CONAPAM), municipalities, and other institutions to establish guidelines necessary to implement this declaration and encourage participation from public, private, and community sectors.
