Aging in Colombia

Like other countries in Latin America, Colombia is experiencing a striking demographic transition. By 2050, the proportion of people age 60 and over is estimated to increase to 27.5 percent (up from 10.8 percent in 2015)—an imminent shift that will require the creation of a range of policies to address their unique needs. 

Although Colombia’s universal healthcare system is ranked among the world’s best and covers more than 95 percent of its population, inequality in healthcare access and delivery, particularly in rural areas, remains a challenge for those 60-plus. The poverty rate among this group is the second highest in Latin America, with 40 percent of older people reporting incomes below the poverty line. A government noncontributory pension program, Colombia Mayor, launched in 2003, provides eligible low-income seniors with a monthly sum to help cover basic living needs. As Colombia continues to adapt to a changing demographic reality, both the public and private sectors have started exploring new opportunities for age-friendly programs and businesses, from apps that streamline banking and healthcare, to programs that encourage social engagement and improve quality of life.