Abstract:

Economic development in Latin America has facilitated the broadening & improvement of governmental services in public health, social security, & public administration. These improvements, particularly in public health, have precipitated changes in rates of morbidity & mortality. Many countries have also experienced a fall in birthrates during this period. The result of people living longer & having fewer children is a progressive aging of Latin American societies. Critical questions posed by this aging process are explored in the context of varying patterns of national development. Special emphasis is placed on the systemic potential for politico-administrative response in the area of social & health services.