Letter of the Day | More needs to be done to take care of the elderly
Published:Tuesday | June 18, 2024 | 12:06 AM
THE EDITOR, Madam:
Ageing can be a frightening experience. The reality is, many of us are unprepared for this phase of our lives. Along with ageing come both physiological and mental challenges. The World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) was observed on June 16 under the theme ‘Spotlight on older persons in emergencies’.
Abuses of older persons manifest itself in numerous forms. As a society, we often focus on the physical abuse which frequently leaves visible signs and marks on the victims. However, there is a more subtle form of abuse is neglect and abandonment. There are many elderly who are bedridden and require diaper change frequently, as well as assistance regarding their health and personal hygiene. In some cases this is not done in a timely manner.
The elderly face many hurdles, especially those who must be cared for in a residential care facility. Unfortunately, most of the nursing homes in Jamaica are unregistered and this is problematic. It is estimated that over 100 unregistered nursing homes are operating across the island, according to Director of the Standards and Regulation Division of the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Dr Cynthia Lewis Graham. This situation is disturbing, given that Jamaica has more than 340,000 people who are 60 years old and over, with that demographic expected to reach 500,000 by 2030. Before selecting a nursing home, consumers should verify that the home is registered to operate as a nursing home. In Jamaica, nursing homes are required to be registered under the Nursing Homes Registration Act, 1934. The Ministry of Health maintains a list of registered nursing homes which it publishes on its website.
Another sore point is the long delay for retirees in the public sector to receive their pensions, which is cruel and often leaves them struggling to make ends meet.
Emergencies, whether natural, pandemics or conflicts, disproportionately impacts the elderly. The UN adds that these events often exacerbate existing vulnerabilities, making it essential to address their needs in emergency planning. The elderly also face mobility issues, chronic health conditions or social isolation. The named factors make it difficult for them to receive timely medical care. Governments should do more to show care and compassion. One such measure could be the removal of the general consumption tax from medical aids that are specifically used by the elderly. We must also acknowledge the Social Pension Programme implemented for those 75 years and older. Why not make this a monthly payment instead of every other month? What about a universal health insurance plan, this could be modelled from the National Health Fund to assist with prescription, as well as visits to the doctors.
The Government should train a special cohort of assistants for the elderly across the island. Many elderly lack companionships and this negatively impacts their mental health.
This year’s WEAAD calls on governments, international donors and non-governmental organisations to prioritise the safety and well-being of older persons regarding their emergency preparedness and response policies.
Let us redouble all efforts to invest more in public education campaigns and express gratitude to caregivers who, for the most part, are unsung heroes. As we work towards creating a better society, let us be mindful that we must foster and develop a more inclusive and protective environment for all.
WAYNE CAMPBELL