The aged going through medical screening during the event.
The Samuel Amo Tobbin Foundation and the Centre for Ageing Studies, University of Ghana, has marked the 2022 International Day for Older Persons with a call on the government to pass the Aged Bill.
According to the group, the passage of the Bill for Aged Persons would integrate the rights of older persons into national policies.
The bill, when passed, would focus on older person and development, advancing health and well-being into old age and ensuring an enabling environment for the elderly.
Director of the Center, Prof. Mavis Dako-Gyeke, addressing the press ahead of the commemoration on October 1, said the day is set aside to create awareness on the needs and challenges faced by the elderly.
The theme for the celebration was, “Resilience of Older Persons in a changing well.”
She said the center has since its establishment, marked the day as part of its awareness creation and advocacy activities to promote the wellbeing of the aged in society.
Prof. Dako-Gyeke said the centre also organises training for care givers and has partnered with the College of Physicians and Surgeons to train medical practitioners in geriatric care.
She indicated that older persons deserve to be respected adding society has to pay attention to their needs by honoring them.
Dr. Frank Dzije Kpesewn, Programme Coordinator for Healthy Ageing at the Family Health Division of the Ghana Health Service, said there is a policy ensure healthy ageing are incorporated into the mainstream healthcare service of the country.
He said currently, specialised care for the aged are being piloted in some districts in the country.
Executive Director, Samuel Amo Tobbin Foundation, Harriet Nottinson Asante, all called on all organisations especially the private organisations to channel part of their funds to cater for the elderly.
“The role of religious bodies cannot be taken out in the care of older persons. They must educate their members to take care of their older relations if they want to reap blessings from God,” she said.
Mrs. Asante also advised older persons to exercise in moderation, eat healthy and balanced diet and “develop a spiritual practice like prayer” as part of their daily life style.”
The group also organised sessions on health screening, counseling, dance and fitness, talk on wellness and other ageing related issues, as well as stakeholder engagements at the Great Hall of the University of Ghana.
By Jamila Akweley Okertchiri