Pearnel Charles Jr | Honouring seniors: facilitating dignity and support in their golden years

Mahatma Gandhi once said, “The true measure of any society can be found in how it treats its most vulnerable members.” The way we care for our older adults reflects our values and priorities as a nation.

As Jamaica faces the realities of an ageing population, the need for comprehensive legislation to protect and support our seniors has become increasingly urgent.

Older adults are the fastest-growing age group in our society, with 13.9 per cent of Jamaicans aged 60 and older (Ministry of Labour and Social Security, 2022). This proportion is projected to reach approximately 23 per cent by 2050 (STATIN, 2011 Census), underscoring the demographic shift and reinforcing the need for policies tailored to their unique needs.

Today’s seniors are more dynamic, educated, and economically stable than in previous generations. As such, active ageing – which includes physical activity, social engagement, lifelong learning, and economic participation – is essential to ensuring a higher quality of life for older adults.

Our seniors are a vast reservoir of knowledge and experience, and with increasing life expectancy, they are living longer, healthier lives. Their contributions provide invaluable guidance, wisdom, and institutional memory, strengthening both social development and economic growth.

Globally and regionally, discussions on ageing have emphasized a rights-based approach, ensuring older adults are not overlooked in broad policy planning. Many countries have already enacted legislation to safeguard their rights and interests, offering valuable models for Jamaica.

As we move forward, Jamaica will draw on international best practices in developing our own Elderly Care and Protection Act, creating a legal framework that upholds the dignity, security, and the well-being of our senior citizens.

STRENGTHENING SUPPORT SYSTEMS

Jamaica has made significant strides in promoting senior welfare through the National Policy for Senior Citizens (2021) and Vision 2030. However, the absence of comprehensive legislation specifically tailored to the needs of older adults remains a critical gap – one we are now actively working to address. To create a modern and effective policy framework, we must consider the evolving realities of ageing and the shifting dynamics of our society. Many older adults remain vulnerable to abuse, neglect, financial exploitation, and social isolation.

Addressing these issues requires proactive planning and an effective response to emerging challenges.

Our ultimate goal is to strengthen protections for vulnerable seniors while developing support systems that promote their well-being and dignity.

This begins with:

1. Enhancing social protection programmes

2. Expanding income-generation training

3. Improving healthcare access

4. Fostering age-friendly communities

ONGOING INITIATIVES

Supporting vulnerable seniors by providing financial assistance through the Programme of Advancement Through Health and Education, ensuring access to food, shelter, and healthcare. Additionally, the National Insurance Scheme serves as a vital safety net, guaranteeing pension benefits for retirees. Recognising the importance of digital inclusion, we facilitate GetConnected Computer Classes, a collaboration between the National Council for Senior Citizens and HEART/NSTA Trust, to equip older adults with essential digital literacy skills.

We also acknowledge that many seniors wish to remain engaged in income-generating activities. To support this, the ministry of labour has partnered with HEART/NSTA Trust to develop training and retooling programmes in viable industries.

Further, in collaboration with the Scientific Research Council, we are assisting older pig farmers in improving livestock production through biodigester systems, which generate biofuel and fertiliser, enhancing efficiency and sustainability.

NATIONAL COMMITMENT TO HEALTHY AGEING

The United Nations Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021-2030) serves as a timely reminder of the need for coordinated efforts to improve the lives of older adults. Its focuses on changing perceptions, building supportive communities, integrating care, and promoting healthy behaviours aligns with Jamaica’s National Policy for Senior Citizens (2021) and Vision 2030.

Let us envision a Jamaica where seniors do not just retire, but experience healthy, active, and productive ageing. The Ministry of Labour and Social Security continues work to ensure that all Jamaicans, especially our seniors, are treated with dignity and recognised for their invaluable contributions. As we move forward, I encourage all Jamaicans to join us in honouring our elders. They have built our nation, raised families, and contributed to economic growth. It is our collective duty to ensure they enjoy their golden years with comfort, security, and respect. Together, let us create a society that values, supports, and uplifts our senior citizens.

Pearnel Charles Jr. is minister of labour and social security and member of parliament for South East Clarendon. Send feedback to columns@gleanerjm.com