From Magnus Eze, Enugu
The desire of the United Nations to increase the protection of the human rights of current and future generations of senior citizens worldwide by increasing awareness of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and inspiring pledges from all stakeholders, received a boost in Anambra State last week.
This year’s commemoration of the International Day for Older People on October 1, happened in various locations in the state.
Alzheimer’s Disease Foundation (ADF) in collaboration with the National Senior Citizens Centre (NSCC) Anambra State, Stakeholders Consultative Forum and Medical Women Association of Nigeria (MWAN) organised the programme.
Others are Alzheimer’s Disease Association of Nigeria (ADAN), Elderly Care, Coalition of Societies for the Rights of Older Persons in Nigeria (COSROPIN), NAUTH Elders Group and Elderly Persons Association of Nigeria (EPAN).
Geriatric issues anchored on the theme of this year’s event: “Fulfilling the promises of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights for older persons,” were highlighted.
Elizabeth Nwadije (95) and Cecilia Nwokoye (93) were among many elderly people who benefitted from the free medical outreach held at Ignatius Akubude Centre, Amawbia in Awka and other communities in the state.
Former Minister of Women Affairs, Iyom Josephine Anenih who sponsored the programme, said it was a fulfilled day: “It was a day packed with memorable and fun filled activities. But I want more volunteers from wealthy Nigerians, politicians and youths both students and non-students as well as those seeking admission into higher institutions of learning and Youth Corps members are needed in the activities of the elderly.”
Anenih regretted that Nigerians hardly participate actively in matters involving the elderly ones, but counselled that “We should remember that one day we will get old and be in such position, and will look forward to get good treatment from our young ones.”
She called for attitudinal change by Nigerians and also Government officials concerning the elderly.
Speakers at the event harped on the healthy living life styles, self care, not being selfish, preventing dementia, rights of older persons, use and abuse of medications, access to health care and health insurance.
Medical doctors from Amaku General Hospital, Awka and Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, alongside other physicians, optometrists and dentists provided medical services to older people at the different locations.
Participants had physical exercise, dancing, walking which Dr. Ngozi Chukwuka, a retired National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Director, recommended for them.