Spain's seniors value social activity for wellbeing, while Ourense leads in elderly care capacity

A study by Fundación Mapfre's Ageingnomics centre finds that social life is now a core component of wellbeing for Spaniards aged 55 and over. More than half (53%) of seniors take the initiative to go out, meet new people and expand their social circles, and 31% engage in such activities at least once a month. Men are more likely to do so (40% versus 23% of women). Around one‑third of seniors would like to increase the frequency of these outings, with a particularly strong desire (74%) among those who currently do not participate.

In the province of Ourense, Galicia, the provision of elderly care is ahead of national standards. The region operates 7,222 geriatric beds across residences and day‑centres, giving a ratio of more than six beds per 100 people aged 65+, surpassing the World Health Organization’s recommended five per 100. Nearly half of the capacity is provided by non‑profit foundations, notably Fundación San Rosendo. New projects will add 120 public beds in a macro‑residence in O Pino and a further 100‑bed centre in Verín, reinforcing Ourense’s position as the best‑prepared Spanish province for an ageing population.