Government committed to a better life for the elderly

[www.inewsguyana.com] – The Ministry of Social Protection through the Palms Geriatric Institution on Thursday ushered in the 2015 observance of Month of the Elderly with divine blessings and strong commitments from the subjects Ministers for a better life for the elderly in Guyana.

The sole state-run home for the elderly hosted a church service for residents to begin its series of activities planned for October, the Month of the Elderly.

Joining the residents were Social Protection Minister, Volda Lawrence and Minister within the Ministry, Simona Broomes.

Extending well wishes for health and strength, Minister Lawrence assured residents that “Government intends to fulfill its promise to all Guyanese for a good life and that includes you. Government would like to build a modern facility for you, and while there is no financing available now to do so, we are still holding it on the agenda. I know there are many issues plaguing the Palms and I want you to know that we are not overlooking or side steeping these issues. We are addressing some of the administrative issues and we will continuously work on the others.”

Among these issues are staffing and improvement of the quality of service provided to residents.  “We are working to ensure that we have qualified persons in various positions that are required to take care of the elderly. So I want you to know that we are keeping you in mind and we have not forgotten you.”

The Minister within the Ministry also recommitted to improving the conditions under which residents of the Palms live. She also urged them to improve their relations with each other, as love can replace the loneliness they may sometime feel.

Delivering the sermon at the church service, Pastor Avril Langford of First Assembly, Wortmanville, encouraged the residents with messages of hope, perseverance, love, gratitude and the need for a close relationship with God.

The residents were treated to songs and renditions from the Messengers and Ras Camo’s steel pan. In return, a resident Bro. Robert John paid tribute to the President and his Cabinet with a special song.

The Month of the Elderly observance in Guyana stems from the 1990 United Nations General Assembly’s designation of October 1 as the International Day of Older Persons. Guyana hosts activities for the elderly throughout the month and this year these activities will include tours to various parts of the country.