Families urged to reconnect as neglecting the elderly leads to emotional decline - Poor Relief Society President

Families are being urged to stay connected with their older relatives as neglecting elderly parents can lead them to lose hope and their will to live.

This has been highlighted by Poor Relief Society President, Sabita Gandhi during the International Day for Older Persons event at Valelevu HART Nursing Home office today where the residents went on a bus tour.

She says even small gestures like a smile or a brief conversation can have a profound impact on their mental health.

While speaking to fijivillage News, Gandhi says many elderly people often hesitate to ask their children for help, fearing they will become a burden.

She says this neglect leads to loneliness, depression, and in some cases even suicidal thoughts.

Gandhi stresses that the elderly have given much to society and their families, yet they are often left behind, deeply affecting their emotional well-being.

She says these parents dedicated their lives to raising their children and when they are ignored or neglected, it takes away their hope.

She has also highlighted the need for more awareness and resources for the elderly, advocating for the development of retirement villages in Fiji, similar to those in countries like Australia and New Zealand.

Valelevu Hart Nursing Home resident, Manjula Wati shared her emotional journey of moving to the home after enduring years of struggle.

In an interview with fijivillage News, Wati says she is originally from Vuniwai in Labasa and moved to Suva after her parents passed away.

59-year-old Wati says she lived with her brother and sister-in-law, but they were too busy with their own lives and eventually migrated, leaving her to struggle alone.

She further says after facing verbal abuse at work for 18 years, she stayed with a friend for six years before seeking assistance from social welfare, which directed her to the HART, where she has now been living for a year and nine months.

Wati has expressed gratitude for the peace and support she receives at the Home, allowing her to enjoy outings and have her basic needs met.

She says it's important to instill good values and responsibility in today’s children to teach children the significance of caring for their parents, rather than abandoning them.

There are currently 28 residents living at the Valelevu HART Nursing Home.

For senior citizens who need someone to speak with and who need support, they can call the toll free number 5626.