The Methodist Church of Fiji will begin reaching out to every division next month to address the increasing number of elderly people taking their own lives in the country.
20 people aged 60 years and above have committed suicide between January to October this year while 3 people in the same age group have attempted to commit suicide.
Secretary for Christian Citizenship and Social Services of the Methodist Church of Fiji, Reverend Sitiveni Kua says the church is concerned that many are unaware that suicide among those aged 60 and above has become a trend.
Reverend Kua says suicide used to be more prevalent among the youth, and the church has previously raised awareness about it.
He says it is important to strengthen family bonds and care for the elderly in the community.
Reverend Kua adds family members need to be reminded that caring for the elderly is only for a short period, and it is a responsibility that should be embraced.
