The neglected Alms House, Nakuru for the elderly

Nakuru, Monday June 19, 2023

by Veronica Bosibori

Nakuru County Government officials have made an impromptu visit to the neglected Alms House, established in 1955 to offer moral and material support to the elderly in the then larger Rift Valley Province.

The team that was led by the acting County Secretary Dr. Samuel Mwaura Monday said their immediate need was to check on the welfare of some 12 senior citizens currently housed there, including their health, diet and general living conditions.

However, they found a dilapidated home and gloomy elderly citizens who feel neglected in their old age.

Dr. Mwaura promised to fast-track refurbishment of the elderly citizen’s residence by first fencing and levelling the compound for the safety of those who walk with the help of clutches.

The county Secretary promised to improve the general ambiance and make the home comfortable for the occupants among other measures. He added that under Article 57 of the constitution of Kenya, the government is obligated to ensure the dignity of older persons was protected at all times.

Dr. Mwaura lauded the government’s Inua Jamii cash transfer program that supports the elderly and said it has cushioned them from abject poverty and hunger, especially in these difficult economic times.  

Additionally, he said the county would invest in education and training of caregivers and medical staff to fill the gap of skills in the provision of specialized care for the elderly persons, especially those with severe illnesses.

David Maina, a physiotherapist who trains caregivers for the elderly in Nakuru City, said after years of working, raising families and contributing to society, many people hope to live out their golden years in comfort, but for many. that turns out to be just a pipe dream.

He also said a majority of the young adults who are supposed to be looking after their ageing parents were out there in urban areas, searching for elusive opportunities, thus leaving the elderly persons with no one to take care of their daily needs. 

Furthermore, the physiotherapist said a number of elderly persons could live longer but die before their time because they have been abandoned, with no care, so they feel depressed and lonely.

Meanwhile, the best option for such lonely hearts is to stay in designated homes for the elderly, thus according to Maina, the society needs to change attitude towards such programs.

Courtesy ; K. N. A