Abuse of the elderly may be in form of physical, psychological, emotional, financial, sexual and spiritual abuse. Most of these elderly people are unable to speak out in cases where they have been abused by families, caregivers or the community at large.
Kilifi District Seventh Day Adventist Churches led by Women Ministry held a religious procession within Basi centre with the aim of educating the society about abuse to the elderly. Joined by other departments within the church the walk was targeting caregivers and families who interact with elderly people on a daily basis.
The End it Now Emphasis week, which involves all SDA churches worldwide, ensured that members of the church were enlightened on the types of abuse to the elderly, how to identify victims of the abuse and how to help the victims without endangering their lives.
Abuse of the elderly mostly goes unnoticed and is hardly reported. However, a few sensitive and serious cases receive attention.
The elderly people also need care and love and their feelings need to be put into consideration. This can only be done if they are given more attention and love.
Caroline Mulunda who led the walk encouraged people from Basi Community to remain close to the elderly in the society and she reminded them that old age is not a curse but a blessing.
She emphasized on the saying that, what goes around comes around so people should watch out on how they treat the elderly because everyone will become old and the same treatment shall be given by the surrounding people.
The culmination of the End it Now week of prayer saw the church being encouraged to be a watchful community and to create a safe environment for the elderly by introducing them to support groups.
In such groups, the elderly can share their experiences freely with their agemates, holding financial awareness workshops, offering prayers and counselling services.
Local authorities can also report any form of abuse of the elderly, provide emergency assistance of basic needs and offer respite care for overburdened caregivers.
“It is our collective responsibility to care for the elderly around us. Our motivation should be the scripture that reminds us to honour our father and mother,” said Caroline.
