Support the elderly to live in dignity, Kenyans urged

As the world celebrates the International Day for Older Persons, concerns have been raised over the isolation of many elderly persons who are subjected to a life of loneliness and poverty.

Tessie Mudavadi, the wife of Prime CS Musalia Mudavadi, on Saturday said rejection is one of the main issues facing the elderly.

“It's crucial that we remember that ageing is not a choice but a natural part of the human experience and should not result in isolation or rejection,” she said.

She was speaking at Chui village in Mathioya subcounty, Murang’a county, during celebrations organised by Ahadi Kenya Trust.

Mudavadi said despite investing all their energy and resources on their children as they nurture them through the various phases of life, they often find themselves in solitude and disconnected from the society that they helped build.

The elders, she said, have weathered the storms of life and seek the warmth of companionship and the solace of being heard and cared for in their frailty.

She said many Kenyans have been marginalising their elderly parents and they try to keep up with the fast-paced world, subjecting them to suffering.

A large number of elderly persons grapple with financial difficulties and are on meagre pensions and struggling to make ends meet despite their lifetime of contributions.

For many, basic necessities, such as healthcare costs, housing and food, have become increasingly burdensome, leaving them vulnerable and compromising their ability to enjoy a dignified life.

She said the day provides an opportunity for Kenyans to reflect on the invaluable contributions of the elderly citizens and address the challenges they face.

“In our pursuit of creating a just and equitable society, it is our responsibility to ensure that our elderly population lives a dignified life in their golden years,” she said.

Ahadi Kenya CEO Stanley Kamau said it is disheartening that elderly persons are subjected to attacks when they should be supported and taken care of.

He cited Kisii region, where he said there are many reported cases of elderly women being branded witches and being hurt or killed.

In Murang’a, he added, many elderly persons have reported having their cash transfer funds stolen by the children or grandchildren.

Others are forced to take care of their grandchildren despite having little strength to work and support them.

Cases of the elderly being attacked by their children over inheritance are also many.

“It is high time for the government protects the elderly in every way possible,” he said after donating blankets and assorted food items to more than 500 elderly persons.

"Those who are receiving cash transfer must be given a chance to enjoy the money and live in dignity."

Nominated MP and acting Jubilee party leader Sabina Chege urged Kenyans to ensure they take care of their ageing parents.

She said they are exposed to the danger of being attacked by thieves and others sexually assaulted when left alone.

Chege pledged to table a motion in the National Assembly asking the government to consider increasing the monthly stipends issued through the cash transfer programme from Sh2,000 to Sh5,000 and ensure the money is disbursed on time.

“The work the elderly have done for the country cannot be repaid, and since they are unable to work and support themselves, it’s important that the government takes care of them,” she said.