On Havana's boulevard, an 88-year-old woman manages to survive by selling lollipops and sodas, highlighting the institutional neglect many elderly Cubans face. Her story resonated on social media after two young men, known as los fuera de rosca and exoticjewelry702, shared a video on Instagram where they chat with her and offer assistance.
The woman, who lives with her grandson, works on the streets from noon until the evening. She explained that she can sell up to 20 sodas a day, depending on what she can afford to buy. Despite her advanced age, she tirelessly continues to make ends meet, selling her goods at 50 pesos each. "They stole my television, the set-top box, both remotes, and a new blood pressure device my son bought for me," she lamented, revealing the insecurity that elderly Cubans endure.
Voicing Her Discontent
Unhesitatingly, she expressed her dissatisfaction with the Cuban regime, which she directly blames for her dire circumstances. "I was born on November 16, 1936. I lived during Grau, Prío, and Batista, but with communism... If they want to arrest me, let them; if they want to kill me, let them, but I can’t live with communism," she declared firmly.
She also compared the current state of Cuba to its past, pointing out that before 1959, poor people "were happy" and one peso was enough for lunch and dinner. "Look," she said, displaying her worn-out and oversized clothes, "I can't gain a single pound, damn it."
An Act of Kindness
The young men sharing her tale decided to give her 1,000 pesos so she could take a break and continue selling the next day. Although initially reluctant to accept the help, they insisted she take the money. "Today you can go home and rest peacefully; tomorrow is another day," they reassured her.
This touching interaction underscores the harsh reality for many Cubans, especially the elderly who, after a lifetime of work, lack access to a decent pension and are forced to find ways to survive on the streets. Their lives are marked by scarcity, neglect, and hopelessness.
Understanding the Elderly Struggle in Cuba
Why do elderly Cubans face neglect?
Elderly Cubans often face neglect due to institutional failures and lack of adequate pensions, forcing them to find alternative means of survival.
How do elderly Cubans survive economically?
Many elderly Cubans resort to selling goods on the streets or relying on family support to make ends meet due to insufficient pensions.
What are the risks faced by elderly people in Cuba?
Elderly people in Cuba face risks such as theft, insecurity, and health issues, compounded by economic hardship and lack of institutional support.