International Day of the Elderly in Costa Rica

This coming October 1st, 2013 we will be celebrating, once more, the International Day of the Elderly established by the United Nations twenty three years ago.

Costa Rica honors this day with respect, promoting the rights that elderly have to enjoy an adequate lifestyle.

In order to strengthen the human rights of the elderly, they should have effective access to preventive health care programs and prompt admittance to hospitalization when it is required. Moreover, obtainable bonuses for housing programs, substitute homes, adequate governmental pension, social security, and active participation in the productive process of the nation, by gaining credits to develop entrepreneurial programs, must be of utmost priority.

Knowledge regarding elder legal protection is key to avoid abuse from their loved ones. Hence, divulging the National Elder Law No. 7935, approved since 1999, and its recent modifications, is an absolute must. One of the most common scenarios I have experienced is that of many senior citizens who have been, without full consent, induced to dispose of their assets. This wrongful action typically happens to those who are vulnerable (special care, disability or disease) which, ultimately, affects his or her direct dependents too.

Did you know that, under the same law stated earlier, you have the grounds to restore wrongfully transferred estates? In fact, all Costa Rica inhabitants have the right to access the criminal and/or domestic violence court to file a complaint.

Due to a recent enrollment of an international convention, pending approval by the United Nations, elderly around the world are pursuing better and increased exposure of their human rights. Regardless, together we can all promote love, honor and respect to our elders from our homes, marketplace and pulpits as our public debt in recognition for their sacrifice, acquired wisdom, and commitment to this nation’s overall well-being and our own.

Today, the International Day of the Elderly, I pay due respect and extend my deepest congratulations to all seniors.


Lic. Lucy Watler
Attorney of Law
East Peak Legal Services
Corporate and Family Law 
San Jose, Costa Rica
8-824-1604  •  AskLucyCR@gmail.com
(NOTE:  Lucy speaks English as well as Español)

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