As we approach the International Day of Older People on October 1st, we celebrate the elderly community of Ndegeya, Uganda—remarkable individuals who serve as living bridges between our past and future. These respected elders are the keepers of invaluable wisdom, traditional knowledge, and cultural heritage that defines our community's identity.
The Reality They Face
Yet behind this reservoir of wisdom lies a stark reality. Many seniors live with untreated health issues such as arthritis, peptic ulcers, hypertension, cancer, and mental health concerns. Access to healthcare is limited, and some must walk long distances for treatment. The Ndegeya Community Clinic (NCC) currently supports and treats over 70 elders, but resources remain insufficient to meet all their needs or reach every elderly household.
Economic insecurity compounds the struggle. A government grant of 25,000 UGX per month (about $7) is intended for those over 85 years, yet coverage is inconsistent, and the payment is unreliable. Many seniors fall outside this support bracket altogether.
Beyond personal health and poverty, elders in Ndegeya carry an enormous burden. With many young adults moving to towns and cities for work, grandparents are left caring for grandchildren—often an average of four per elder—without sufficient food, school supplies, or other necessities. In some cases, relatives abandon basic responsibilities such as providing food, housing, or even toilets, leaving elderly caregivers to struggle in silence.
A Commitment Beyond Recognition
True honour for our elders requires sustained action beyond annual celebrations. This means supporting accessible healthcare initiatives for rural seniors, creating economic opportunities that utilize their skills and experience, and ensuring their voices remain central to community decision-making processes.
Moving Forward Together
The elderly community of Ndegeya actively participates in shaping their community's future. They remind us that growing older means reaching depths of understanding that only time and experience can provide.
This International Day of Older People, we commit to creating communities where seniors receive the respect, support, and recognition they deserve. The wisdom of Ndegeya's elders is of unmeasurable value and their contributions continue enriching our collective journey.
