The Coalition Government of Fiji has reiterated its strong commitment to enhancing the well-being of the country’s senior citizens in observance of the International Day for Older Persons. The government is focusing on actionable reform to improve elder care by addressing both systemic issues and societal attitudes. The Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, praised older Fijians for their contributions, noting that many worked in informal sectors such as farming, caregiving, and casual employment.
Currently, Fiji’s Social Pension Scheme supports 58,000 residents aged 65 and above, while an additional 32,000 seniors benefit from transport assistance starting at age 70. However, Kiran raised serious concerns over increasing elder abuse, which encompasses property crimes, domestic violence, and financial exploitation, often committed by family members. Alarmingly, police have reported several abuse cases leading to tragic outcomes, with six suicides and three attempted suicides among seniors just within the first five months of the year.
To tackle these challenges, the Ministry is revising the National Aging Policy and emphasizing the importance of formal registration for service providers to ensure accountability and higher care standards. Nationwide awareness campaigns are ongoing to educate the elderly about legal rights, health care, and property protection. Kiran has urged a cultural shift back to respecting and caring for elders, arguing that elder care should be seen as a national priority beyond a social obligation.
These initiatives align with prior efforts by the Fijian government to combat elder abuse and neglect. There is a persistent call for legislative review of elder care policies. The government is working towards establishing community hubs aimed at promoting emotional and mental well-being among seniors. This includes collaboration with local leaders and faith-based organizations to facilitate regular activities and events for the elderly.
By fostering these initiatives, Fiji hopes to create a culture that values elders and addresses the loneliness and isolation that often contribute to elder abuse. Through structured support networks and legislative reforms, the government intends to significantly enhance the quality of life for the elderly population, ensuring they live with dignity and respect.
Fiji’s dedication to improving elder care is a promising step towards nurturing a society that sincerely values its senior citizens. This commitment underscores the nation’s understanding of the importance of communal responsibility, aiming to ensure a better quality of life for its older residents.