Background: Aging is a natural evolutionary process; however, healthy aging, as defined by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the World Health Organization (WHO), is a continuous endeavor focused on optimizing functional abilities and enhancing both physical and emotional health. This approach promotes independence and improves quality of life throughout the lifespan. Achieving healthy aging requires a comprehensive understanding of its prerequisites, particularly a shift in social behaviors and lifestyles that prepare individuals for healthy aging. Thus, this involves creating a life project that resists conformity to societal norms shaped by globalization, in addition to considering the intersections between the social, economic, gender equality, and cultural factors that influence the aging process.

 

It is also essential to consider gender inequality when discussing healthy aging, especially since historically, caregiving roles have been disproportionately assigned to women, perpetuating global gender disparities. In Brazil, the majority of caregivers are women from lower-income areas, predominantly of African descent, highlighting a significant racial component. While in Europe, particularly in Spain, many caregivers are migrant women who often bear the physical burdens associated with caregiving. This context illustrates the interconnectedness of caregiving practices within a global economic framework that is stratified by access to health, affordability and health outcomes in achieving healthy aging.

 

Methods: This study employs a multiple case study approach to examine public policies and social practices related to healthy aging in Brazil and Spain. Gender equality emerges as a critical factor, as women frequently encounter specific health challenges and barriers to education throughout their lives. Education serves as a vital social determinant of health, with higher educational attainment correlating with better health outcomes and enhanced decision-making capabilities regarding personal well-being. The intersectionality of these elements reveals significant inequalities that impact the healthy aging process across different contexts.

 

Results: The findings highlight the necessity of assessing social determinants of health and their intersectionality to foster improved healthy aging outcomes. The case study provides valuable insights into effective health promotion interventions that can be tailored to the unique social behaviors and needs of each country. By addressing these disparities, one gains an enhanced perspective to establish a better quality of life for elderly populations while simultaneously mitigating gender and social inequalities.

 

Conclusions: Understanding the intersectionality of social determinants is essential for promoting healthy aging. This case study of Brazil and Spain offers critical insights that inform the development of inclusive public health policies aimed at enhancing human rights and quality of life for aging populations. By recognizing and addressing the inequalities that affect healthy aging, we can implement more effective health promotion strategies that contribute to social equity and improved well-being for all individuals as they age.

 

Key Words: Healthy aging, gender inequality, social determinants of health, social public policy, Brazil, Spain, disparity, intersectionality, quality of life.