NSCC Distributes Assistive Devices To Older Persons

Over 100 hundred older persons in Keffi, Nasarawa state, have benefited from a medical outreach aimed at improving their well-being.

The outreach witnessed the distribution of assistive mobillity devices and free medical checks, among other activities.

Oganized by the National Senior Citizens Center in collaboration with Gerocare, the outreach is part of the grand finale to activities to celebrate this year’s international Day of Older persons.

Speaking at the event, the Director General,
National Senior Citizens Centre, NSCC, Emem Omokaro, reiterated the commitment of the agency towards improving the quality of life of older persons by promoting healthy ageing and reducing their vulnerability.

Dr.Omokaro stressed the need to meet the needs of older persons such as healthcare and nutritional guidance.

The Director general who explained that the walking aid distributed is to help older persons with mobility challenges noted that helping older persons reduces dependence on others, which, in some cases, leads to mistreatment or violence.

“Healthy ageing goes beyond financial support. We are working closely with state governments to ensure that older persons are integrated into various aspects of development. This includes providing care, economic empowerment, and training opportunities”, Dr. Omokaro stated.

She also highlighted the NSCC’s partnership with universities specializing in geriatric care, which will enhance the availability of healthcare services for senior citizens.

Dr Omokaro also called on stakeholders, both in the public and private sectors, to prioritize the needs of older persons, emphasizing the importance of continued investment in their healthcare, social security, and overall well-being.

On his part, Co-Founder Gerocare Solutions, Dr Ajibola Mareiyebu, who commended the efforts of NSCC in addressing the health issues of the elderly, pledged the continuous commitment of the organization in providing preventive healthcare for the elderly.

Dr. Mareiyebu reiterated Gerocare’s commitment in filling the gap in elderly healthcare, particularly as the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) no longer covers individuals over 65.

“At Gerocare Solutions, our mission is to ensure that every elderly person, no matter where they are, can access quality healthcare.
Today’s outreach in partnership with NSCC shows our commitment to achieving this goal. Preventive care is key to helping our senior citizens live healthier and more dignified lives,”Dr. Mareiyebu said.

Some of the beneficiaries expressed joy over the kind gesture and called for consistency of such programs to help them age gracefully.

Highlight of the event includes treatment of common ailments such as hypertension, diabetes, and arthritis while critical cases were referred to specialized care for further treatment.

Nkiruka Okeke, Edited By Grace Namiji