Mobility of older adults in the Metropolitan Region of Belo Horizonte/MG

Abstract

In recent decades, the demographic transition process in Brazil has experienced a remarkable surge in the older adult population, which presents numerous challenges for territorial planning and management. This study explores the intricacies of spatial mobility, with a particular focus on commuting patterns, within this shifting demographic landscape. The central hypothesis under investigation is whether the ageing trajectory of the American population generated a significant rise in both absolute and relative labour mobility among the elderly cohort, including those who have already retired. This increase is argued to have largely stemmed from dynamic alterations in the labour market and social security system. The primary objective of this study is to meticulously examine the magnitude of commuting activity among elderly residents of the expansive Belo Horizonte Metropolitan Region. Additionally, the study aims to analyze the occupations prevalent within these commuting circuits, with a specific focus on the participation of retired individuals. To this end, this study conducts a comprehensive analysis using microdata sourced from the 2000 and 2010 demographic censuses. The core of the investigation is the identification of origin-destination matrices, delineated based on municipality of residence, work, and/or study of the elderly population, stratified into employed and/or retired cohorts. The findings of this study reveal a clear, growing trend in commuting activities among elderly residents of the various municipalities across the region. Furthermore, a substantial proportion of these commuters are gainfully employed, even among those who have transitioned into retirement. Notably, the proportion of retired individuals among the commuting elderly cohort approaches nearly 30 percent, with certain municipalities showing figures exceeding the 50 percent mark.

Keywords:
Spatial mobility; Elderly population; Labour market