La industria de la hospitalidad y su relación con el cuidado de las personas mayores.

The elderly? Old? The name is not important, but the way they are treated is. In past civilizations old people were recognized and treated with great respect, they played a very important role in society, especially in decision making. Unfortunately, modern day society has modified many of its structures, beliefs and practices, among them the esteem for older people, who far from being a source of knowledge and enrichment have become a «load» for the family. The need for relatives who take care of an old person is increasing day to day, and society is not being able to fulfill this requirement, since the population over 65 years increases 2,3% annually and the number of relatives available to take care of them only grows 0,8%. These facts make us immediately think about hospitality. It does not matter where the old person is: in his own home, in the house of a relative, an asylum or a special residence, they must be treated properly and with respect, generating an atmosphere which enables their well-being.