THE National Library of Guyana and the Ministry of Health on Friday hosted a Senior Citizens Health Fest at the National Library of Guyana on Church Street, Georgetown.
The event was held under the theme, ‘Living Healthy, Living Longer,’ and reflected a meaningful collaboration between the ministry and the National Library, while underscoring a shared commitment to empowering individuals and communities with knowledge and practical tools to make healthier life choices.
The National Library firmly believes that access to information is essential to empowering persons. Health literacy, the library said, is just as important as traditional literacy, where persons can understand how to care for their bodies, manage illnesses, maintain mental wellness, and make informed lifestyle choices, which are all part of living full, and vibrant lives.
The health fest featured several activities including screenings and consultations, demonstrations, and transformative sessions. Along with its partners such as the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, the library aims to bring vital services to all persons in a comfortable and welcoming environment.
The Director of Regional Health Services, Dr Cerdel McWatt, in his remarks said as the world transitions, the elderly population is increasing. This, he underscored, is why there is a need for systems to be put in place to deal with this.
He revealed that in the 2030 projections, a majority of the population will be 60 years and over. By 2050, the global population will double, reaching two billion people. As a result of this, we will see increased life expectancy.
“I must say that aging is not a crisis. It’s a testament to our progress and achievement in society. Our task is to ensure that long life is ensured, and that the long life that we benefit from is for the better. Guyana stands committed to advance healthy aging for all,” he said.
Meanwhile, the National School Health Coordinator at the Ministry of Education, Jessica Anthony, had extended congratulatory messages to the National Library for hosting such an initiative as part of its Senior Citizen Programme, adding that in doing this, the library continues to recognise that well-being is not just one-dimensional, it is mental, physical, and social.
“This kind of collaboration is so important because when institutions come together like this, we create spaces where people feel supported in very practical and impactful ways. At the Ministry of Education, we strongly believe in the importance of lifelong learning. Education does not stop when we leave school, it actually continues throughout our lives. And I believe that health education is a very critical part of that journey,” Ms Anthony said.
Meanwhile, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Erica Forte, said senior citizens represent the foundation of our society; they are the teachers, builders, caregivers and quiet pillars who have shaped the communities we serve.
“Today’s activity reflects a critical shift in how we approach aging. It is no longer only about care in times of illness. It is about prevention, wellness, and quality of life. It is about ensuring that our elderly population remains active, informed, and supported,” Dr Forte remarked.
The Permanent Secretary added that health, education, screenings, and engagement opportunities such as the one held on Friday help to empower seniors to take charge of their well-being. She encouraged persons to continue to promote a culture where aging is not seen as decline, but as a stage of life that deserves investment.
