Russia's elderly live rough lives, and the state offers almost no help, but officials say everything is about to change

Responding to widespread criticism of the government’s plan to raise the retirement age, Russia’s state-controlled media has been busy telling readers how important it is to live vigorously into old age. In reality, Russia is a particularly hard place to grow old. When judged on life expectancy and mental well-being, Russia falls to 86th place. This article looks at Russia’s geriatric care infrastructure and how officials have promised to change it.