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By Kevon Browne
St. Kitts and Nevis (WINN): The Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Ageing and Disability Affairs has opened three new day centres for seniors in Tabernacle, Lodge and Sandy Point. The centres were inaugurated on Tuesday, July 16, 2024, at the Lighthouse Baptist Church in Sandy Point.
Minister of Youth Empowerment, Ageing and Disability Isalean Phillip spoke at the event, highlighting the government’s commitment to older people under the leadership of Terrance Dr. and Deputy Prime Minister Geoffrey Hanley.
“This expansion of the program reflects the commitment of this Government, under the leadership of Dr. Terence Drew and Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Geoffrey Hanley. They are serious about ensuring that all of us, especially those in our prime years, can age actively, healthily and with dignity,” Minister Philip said.
Minister Philip outlined the benefits of the scheme, noting that the centres provide a space for seniors to socialise, access information and stay connected with their representatives and government ministers.
The Seniors’ Day program initially launched in three communities, St. Paul, Newtown and St. Peter, on March 20, 2023. The program runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays in East Basseterre, St. Peter and St. Paul, respectively, with participants engaging in a variety of activities, including discussions on proper foot care for people with diabetes, healthy eating, financial management and disaster preparedness.
Minister Philippe expressed his satisfaction with the expansion of the program and the positive feedback from participants. Minister Philippe thanked the organizers and stakeholders who played a key role in the successful opening of the center.
Permanent Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office Naeemah Hazelle praised the expansion of the Seniors’ Day program at a ceremony held at Lighthouse Baptist Church. The ministry has launched three new Seniors’ Day programs for the Lodge, Tabernacle and Sandy Point communities.
PS Hazelle assured participants and organisers that the programme has the full support of the Prime Minister’s Office and that the programme will be expanded as required.
The Senior Citizens Day Program is well known for its approach to caring for St. Kitts’ aging population. The program engages seniors in organized social activities. It includes an educational component that teaches participants about healthy eating habits, disaster management, proper foot care for diabetics, and financial management.
“These activities are more than just for fun; they boost your physical health, mental health, emotional resilience and overall quality of life. I applaud the efforts of staff at the Department of Youth Empowerment, Ageing and Disability because active participation in social, physical and cognitive activities is essential to promoting longevity, independence and a sense of purpose,” PS Hazelle said.
The Permanent Secretary noted that initiatives such as the Senior Citizens’ Day programme enabled the government to express its appreciation to senior citizens for their contribution to nation building and ensure that senior citizens remain active in society.
In addition to the new Lodge, Sandy Point and Tabernacle centres, the Seniors Day programme is also being run in East Basseterre, St Peter and St Paul.
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