The Implications of the Economic Crisis in Social Policies for the Elderly
The Implications of the Economic Crisis in Social Policies for the Elderly

Summary/Abstract: The aim of this study was to analyze the implications of the economic crisis in social policy for elderly, determinate the effect of aging population on pension system, and ascertain the new paradigm in social policies for the elderly. Social tension unleashed in 2012 was due to some controversial political measures. Reforming the pension system by law 263/2010 was first step in mitigating the effects of the aging population. By studying the political and economical background of social policies for the elderly during the financial crisis, the purpose of this paper is to answer the following questions: What are the implications of the economic crisis at the level of elderly population and social policies in Romania? How to understand a system so damaged? May be observed a new paradigm in social policies for the elderly? Research hypotheses were tested by qualitative research, using as main method systematic observation from the outside. Survey findings indicated a high-level of dissatisfaction in terms of accessibility to services and facilities for the elderly; also the economic crisis and the lack of pension funds are sources of insecurity and conflict at the same time. Social policies for the elderly failed because of many needs that modern civil society have. This article confirms that a new paradigm begins to emerge in social policies for the elderly. Aging population has accelerated the dissemination of ideas for reforming the pension system, while the political and economic crisis has forced elite to adopt measures that have sparked discontent and conflict in society. Thus, reform based on new paradigm of social policies for the elderly can be considered a new model to ensure elderly welfare.

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