Following Pope Francis’ declaration that a society without consideration for the elderly is ruined, Justice Development and Peace Commission, JDPC, Onitsha Archdiocese, has given priority to the elderly and grandparents.
At the maiden programme of the Commission held at Holy Spirit Parish, Omagba, which featured medicare and health talks, the importance of raising public consciousness on the need to show love and solidarity to elderly, was highlighted, as they continue to impact the society from their wealth of experience.
Speaking at the event, the Director of JDPC, Onitsha Archdiocese, Reverend Father Edwin Udoye said the programme is aimed at sensitizing the elderly on the challenges of old age, socialization and keeping memories alive for societal building
Reverend Father Udoye explained that most often, the elderly are forgotten and abandoned in villages, resulting in loneliness, depression and other psychological factors affecting the ageing process and urged communities to initiate and key into such programmes in order to care for the elderly.
Earlier in his remark, the former Chancellor and Coordinator of Human Life Unit, Onitsha Archdiocese, Very Reverend Father Anthony Asoanya said the forum is deepening the usefulness and presence of the elderly, adding that their wealth of knowledge and sense of values need to be cherished.
In a lecture, a resource person, Reverend Sister Mary-Jude Therese of Pietan Caring Mission, discouraged abuses against the elderly and rather exposed them to tips on proper diet and essence of regular health checks.
Speaking to the ABS, a ninety-three years old Mr Mathias Obidike from Nimo, in Njikoka Local Government Area, and one hundred and four years old Mrs Bernadette Ozumba from Ogidi, in Idemili North Local Government Area, attributed societal ills and poor lifestyles as prevalent factors affecting longevity, while Mr Donatus Onyirioha and Mrs Comfort Ezeofor described such programme they were exposed to as a welcome development, calling for its sustenance.
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