The first training course "Long Live the Elderly!" in Central America took place in early August in San Salvador.

The countries of the Central American region are experiencing a sharp rise in the elderly population, with a growing average life and a life expectancy that gets longer and longer. The course has allowed, therefore, a reflection on the reality of old people in countries such as Nicaragua, Guatemala, El Salvador and Mexico, in the light of the experience and expertise gained by the Community of Sant'Egidio after more than forty years of friendship with the elderly in Italy and worldwide.

For years, Sant'Egidio has started in Central America many services for the people of the third age, the training course then offered a global view on various aspects of the life of old people and opened new perspectives, such as to counter the social isolation of the elderly and multiply the opportunities for interaction between different generations. In this regard, the parties of the Youth for Peace with the elders of the nursing homes of San Salvador are necessary, and the first step to building in Central America a society that is inclusive and friend of the elderly.