Elderly urged not to be forgotten, as isolation and lack of support continue to affect many

We are hearing a lot more about issues concerning older persons, whether it's abuse, neglect, or challenges regarding access to health and legal services.

Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, highlighted this to the various senior citizens and stakeholders present at the Elderly Recreation Day event, which celebrates the elderly while ensuring they feel valued and supported, at Ratu Sukuna Park.

She says the elderly often feel isolated and lack opportunities when they retire, and it is important for them to receive the necessary support.

She says the Ministry is working to create spaces like the Sukuna Park throughout the country, where older people can network, socialise, and have something to enjoy when they come to collect their pensions.

The Minister says if each of us reached out to at least one senior citizen once a week, the world would be a different place, and the elderly would not be left in tears.

Minister for Local Government and Housing, Maciu Nalumisa says the goal is to foster a positive and inclusive environment that encourages interaction and fun while also promoting health and wellness.

He adds the Ministry is working with the Ministry for Women to explore ways to increase housing access to meet the rising demand for spaces such as aged care facilities.

He is urging people of Fiji to remember the importance of caring for our elders and ensuring that they continue to feel a strong sense of connection to their communities.

The event also saw several representatives and residents from aged-care homes who came to enjoy a day of fun and take advantage of the services provided.

Hemant Maysuria from the Father Law Home in Wailekutu, Lami says the elderly often dwell on past events and face several health issues.

He says it was an opportunity for the residents come to the city, enjoy the various performances organised by youth groups, spend time with other elderly people and take advantage of various health and legal services.

He is also urging the need for various organisations and government-provided services to visit aged-care facilities to offer their services, as it is difficult for most senior citizens to visit doctors, dentists or lawyers.