The primary need for senior citizens is access to good health care.
Former Ambassador Dr. Kaire Mbuende is therefore calling for access to equal healthcare for all, especially for the senior citizens.
Dr. Mbuende was speaking at the elder’s lunch in Otjiwarongo.
Caring for the elderly is a community obligation. It reflects societal values of compassion and responsibility, promoting a culture of mutual support across generations.
The elderly possess a wealth of knowledge and life experiences, and although retired, some held prominent positions.
However, when it comes to healthcare, Dr. Mbuende, who was a special guest, says good medical care is limited to those that can afford it.
“The issue of access to health, affordable health, and good health is critical for our senior citizens. We are reaching a stage in our lives where the visit to the doctor has become more frequent, and good medical care should not only be for the well-to-do but it should be for every citizen of this country.”
By prioritising elderly care, a more compassionate, connected, and respectful community for all is created.
Former nbc Director General Bob Kandetu, a guest too at the gathering, alluded that while most senior citizens stay at home, they continue to play meaningful roles.
“These are the people taking care of your children; you get a baby, you take her to the village, throw it to the grandmother, leave her there, and only come back after three months. These are the people that are making sure that life is still life for everyone.”
Another senior citizen, Leonard Simushi, urged his fellow elders to put God first in their lives.
“Without God, we cannot achieve what we can achieve; even if you want to achieve economic independence, we can’t do so if God is still with us.”
The elderly’s lunch was organised and funded by Waterberg Petroleum and brought together senior citizens from different elderly groups.