Deputy Minority Leader in Parliament, Mr. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has called upon Ghanaians to unite in recognizing and supporting the elderly population globally for their invaluable contributions throughout their lifetimes.
He also urged the government to restructure the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) program to better serve the elderly in society.
Mr. Kofi Buah, who represents Ellembelle in Parliament, made these remarks during his address and interaction with the elderly to commemorate International Elderly Day at Ambainu in the Western Region.
This year's celebration carries the theme “Fulfilling the Promises of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights for Older Persons Across Generations.”
The Deputy Minority Leader expressed his pride in advocating for the welfare of the elderly and mentioned his establishment of an elderly care center in his constituency. The primary goal of the center is to enhance the well-being of senior citizens.
He noted that the Elderly Care Centre provides comprehensive healthcare services tailored to the specific needs of the elderly, including regular check-ups, access to specialized medical professionals, and nutritious meals. This has led to a significant improvement in their overall health.
The center also focuses on creating a sense of belonging and social connectivity among the elderly through various recreational activities, workshops, and group outings. These activities enable them to bond, share experiences, and combat feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Recognizing the importance of mental health among the elderly, the center has implemented programs that enhance cognitive abilities, such as memory exercises and stimulating games.
“The establishment of the Elderly Care Centre in my constituency has truly transformed the lives of our senior citizens,” emphasized Mr. Kofi Buah, highlighting that by prioritizing their physical, emotional, and social well-being, they have created a haven for elderly individuals to age gracefully.
By P. K. Yankey: Editing by Adewale Adejoke