The ongoing National Ageing Policy Review consultations continue to highlight powerful, real-life examples of resilience and healthy ageing across Fiji.
95-year-old Lesayani Lewavaro continues to lead an active life, regularly foraging for firewood, preparing her own meals and sustaining herself through locally produced food and fresh catch from the river.
Lewavaro’s lifestyle reflects the benefits of physical activity, a strong connection to the land, and a diet rooted in natural, locally sourced foods.
Her story offers valuable insight into how traditional ways of living can support longevity, health and independence among older persons.
Chief Executive Officer of the National Council for Older Persons, Nilesh Goundar emphasised the importance of promoting healthy ageing.
Goundar adds that healthy ageing begins long before old age, by prioritising wellness, active living and preventative approaches, we can support older persons to live independently.