-reiterates Administration’s  appreciation of senior citizens
Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Priya Manickchand, before a packed audience of residents of the Palms, staff, senior personnel from her ministry and invitees from other homes for the elderly, Friday officially launched activities in observance of Month of the Elderly, under the theme “Working for the Elderly, celebrating their contributions to Guyana”. In her address, Minister Manickchand  pointed out that the month of activities affords  the opportunity for giving credit to the nation’s senior citizens, and doing things that will make their lives better, as well as highlighting  to the nation just how fortunate it has been to have senior citizens in its midst. She reiterated that without this very special category, none of us could have been, thanking them in the process for the role played in the development of the nation’s children.
She emphasised that although the government may not  express its thanks and appreciation publicly and very often to the elderly, the many interventions made and from which they are the current beneficiaries are evidence of the administration’s gratitude.
Pointing to the State’s care for the elderly, she referred to ongoing programmes at the Palms not only to provide a shelter so that those in care there can enjoy their golden years, but also to the type and quality of meals, as well as a new building for more recreational facilities that will be ready this month.
With reference to the 230 residents residing at the institution, the Minister assured that government will continue to offer free shelter and care, because of its compassion for the elderly.
Minister Manickchand also alluded to the past when persons who applied for old age pensions were subjected to a means test so as to determine their eligibility. This process, she continued, was stopped by the late President Dr Cheddi Jagan, who said that all Guyanese regardless of means, once they have attained pensionable age, are entitled.

She said that the month‘s activities  is launched to raise awareness all across Guyana, so that children, grandchildren, neighbours and relatives will be more respectful and grateful toward senior citizens, and before next year, that there will be not only a continuation, but improvements in the way senior citizens are served.
Minister Manickchand lauded the increased collaboration between the younger generation and their senior counterparts in bringing benefits to Guyana, saying that her ministry will encourage young people to benefit from the wisdom of the older generation.
In this regard, she announced the imminent launching of a collection of wisdom, in addition to interventions by the Ministry of Health as regards serving the elderly.
Reverend Kwame Gilbert, also addressed the gathering, reiterating the Human Services Minister’s remarks on the commitment of the PPP/C government to the well-being of the nation’s elderly, pointing out that the efforts to alleviate the circumstances that affect people’s lives are both commendable and unparalleled.

He said that the role of the elderly is often misconstrued as one that is antiquated and unrelated to modern experiences, and that they are considered as rusting relics of times gone by. He emphasised though that they must rather be revered, and engaged for their wisdom and institutional memory. (GINA)