Senior citizens in Nadi are poised to gain a significant boost in their mental and physical well-being with the upcoming construction of a new recreational park tailored specifically for the elderly. This project, spearheaded by Vineel Nand, a dedicated advocate for elder rights in Fiji, aims to cultivate a nurturing environment for seniors when it breaks ground later this year.
The park is designed with the wellness of its elderly visitors in mind, offering features such as gaming activities, gentle exercise equipment, and serene seating areas conducive to relaxation and socialization. Nand has highlighted a critical need for such a facility, noting the harsh realities many seniors face in Fiji, where isolation often leads to mental and physical stress. Family dynamics can sometimes result in neglect, forcing elderly individuals to navigate the challenges of aging without adequate support.
Moreover, Nand spoke to the troubling tendency among seniors to remain quiet about mistreatment they may experience from relatives, often due to a sense of loyalty or fear of repercussions. His vision for the park is to create a space where older adults can enjoy their later years and feel appreciated within their communities.
In discussing the project’s development, Nand indicated that his team is in the early stages of planning, with specific designs and costs still to be finalized. He stated, “Right now, we do not have expertise in that field for building a recreational park, which is why we will be consulting experts from Australia and New Zealand to guide us on how to develop it.” Despite these obstacles, Nand’s optimism about beginning construction this year remains strong.
The project team is in active talks with the Nadi Town Council to secure the necessary land and is exploring sponsorship opportunities to fund the initiative. Notably, Nand’s vision extends beyond Nadi, as plans are already underway to establish similar parks in other towns and cities across Fiji, reflecting a commitment to improving the lives of elderly citizens nationwide. This initiative underscores a growing recognition of the importance of supporting and valuing the elderly population, aiming for a brighter future where they can thrive in communal settings.