The National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) has convened a stakeholders’ coordination meeting on older persons, held under the theme “The Age of Longevity: Rethinking Systems for Longer Lives”.
The meeting drew stakeholders from different institutions to consider a changing demographic landscape, and the opportunities and challenges that longer lives bring with them.
Discussion centred on the systems and services that allow older persons to live longer, healthier and more dignified lives while staying active and included in society.
HEALTH AND COVERAGE
Participants examined demographic trends and the emerging needs of older persons, together with the legal, policy and institutional framework that protects them.
On health, the agenda ran from age-responsive care and universal health coverage to chronic and non-communicable diseases, rehabilitation, mental health and palliative care.
Stakeholders also went through the registration and enrolment of older persons under the Social Health Authority (SHA), access to Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) benefits, and the barriers that still keep healthcare and other essential services out of reach.
COORDINATION AND REFERRALS
The meeting gave stakeholders a platform to share reports, emerging issues and cases affecting older persons, with attention to coordination, referrals and accountability.
Participants closed on practical interventions and a way forward towards systems that are inclusive, responsive and sustainable, and that recognize the rights, needs and contributions of older persons.
