This is how Pedro Sánchez's PSOE dooms young people to precariousness

In 2050, one in three Spaniards will be 65 years old or older. Demographic projections warn of a progressive aging of the population.

Meanwhile, young people face difficulties accessing stable jobs and affordable housing. 70% of young workers live with their parents due to precarious employment and high rental prices.

The homeownership rate among those under 35 has dropped to 31.8%. In contrast, 86% of retirees own a home, and 60% have two or more properties.

However, within the group of pensioners, there are significant inequalities. While some barely make the ends meet, others enjoy a comfortable retirement.

Pension system and sustainability

About 288,000 non-contributory pensioners will receive an annual benefit of 7,900 euros ($8,400) in 2025. Another 1.8 million retirees require minimum supplements.

The minimum annual pension without a dependent spouse is 12,241 euros ($13,000), but there are more than one million pensions exceeding 2,500 euros ($2,700) per month.

Currently, less than two and a half workers support each pension, a ratio that jeopardizes the viability of the system.

The aging population and the arrival of boomers to retirement will increase the electoral weight of the elderly.

In recent years, PSOE, PP, and Junts have approved measures aimed at pensioners, aware of their importance at the polls. They are 11.2 million people representing a third of the electorate.

Tax benefits and aid

Tax policies favor the elderly with exemptions on capital earnings and deductions in the IRPF (the Spanish income tax). The sale of a primary residence is not taxed in the IRPF for those over 65.

Additionally, those receiving pensions below 22,000 euros ($23,400) annually are not required to file taxes. There are also incentives to convert money obtained from asset sales into annuities without taxation.

Regarding inheritances, many autonomous communities apply exemptions on the Inheritance Tax. There are also IBI (real estate tax) discounts and additional deductions for pensioners with disabilities.

Transport and housing

Public transport is free in Madrid for those over 65, while young people receive less aid.

In Catalonia, the Pink Card allows free or reduced-fare travel in Barcelona. Other communities offer similar discounts, although some benefits depend on income level.

In housing, there are subsidies to adapt homes for the elderly. Some communities finance the installation of elevators and ramps.

For retirees with low incomes, there is rental assistance, although the amounts are small. Dependents can access benefits for home care or retirement centers.

Tourism, leisure, and culture

The institute for the elderly Imserso subsidizes trips from 125 euros ($133), including transportation, accommodation, and pension. In the 2024-2025 edition, 886,000 spots have been made available for beach destinations and cultural tourism.

Additionally, those over 55 receive discounts in the Paradores hotel network.

Cultural institutions offer free or discounted entry to museums, theaters, and shows. There are also sports activities and municipal workshops with discounts of up to 70% for the elderly.

The aging population is shaping the political and economic agenda. While the elderly receive multiple aids and benefits, young people face increasing difficulties.

Job insecurity and inaccessible housing are pushing new generations to the background.

If no measures are taken, Spain will face a future where the generational gap becomes increasingly evident.