Anatoly Dmitryevich Gusev, 84, Belarus

Anatoly Dmitryevich Gusev was born on 22 June 1928. He is a professor of philosophy in the Republic of Belarus. His scientific interests are social policy and inclusion and human rights philosophy.

When asked about his greatest concerns related to his age, Mr Gusev mentions the lifestyle, genetic resources and the health care system.

“I think these are the components that determine the health status and longevity of people in any country, including Belarus. A person is as old as he/she feels. I feel well for my age. But there are factors that do not depend totally on individuals, such as the environment for example. The society and the state play an important role in this.

“The state should aim at ensuring a healthy life for all citizens. There shouldn’t be any age discrimination in this sense – all citizens, young or older, have the same rights. We all have the inalienable rights to live, work and, when the time comes, to take a dignified retirement.

“Respect for human dignity is one of the most important human rights. No one should assume that older people, who have worked all their lives, have to live isolated in their homes when they retire. On the contrary, older people should live as they can and want – walk, discuss, read, meet friends, visit places of interest. 

“One of my everyday concerns is the low, insufficient pension. It’s not enough to cover the costs of the modern effective medicines I need.”

Health care system

“With regard to the health care system, it seems that doctors are overloaded. They cannot pay enough attention to the patients: they take about 2-3 minutes to examine a patient and about 5-7 minutes to fill out the necessary medical paperwork. But in general, the attitude is good both towards the young and older patients.

“The second problem of the health system is poor hospital facilities and the low wages of medical staff, which indirectly affects their skills and attitudes toward patients.”

What can be done to improve life for older people in Minsk?

“This is an important moral and maybe even a political issue. There are different ways to solve it. They say this is a consequence of insufficient economic development. But we are talking about the quality of life. This means the atmosphere, relations among people in society. This depends a lot on people.

“Of course there are issues related to safety, transportation, construction, etc. In this sense there has been some progress. But the most important thing is that old people are part of society, not outcasts."

How to stay healthy and active in your 80s

“No one in my family abuses alcohol or tobacco. We have a normal lifestyle. We have worked hard for the prosperity of our society – and this is not just rhetoric, that was indeed our way of life. One has to understand the purpose and meaning of life. It’s not just taking/consuming, but mostly giving.

“I dedicated fifty years to my work. For me, public and social life were always very important. I have participated in the work of many community-based, voluntary organizations, because I sincerely believe people should think and care about others. And of course my family is a very important part of my life – my wife, children and grandchildren. 

“It’s important to stay active, communicate, socialize with friends and neighbours. This is what I enjoy.”