The Golden Sage Geriatric Foundation, a foundation dedicated to the well-being and care of the elderly, has provided free medical checkups to 200 elderly persons in Jos.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the majority of the beneficiaries were drawn from the Raho Kaanan community in Jos South Local Government Area (LGA).
The Executive Director of the foundation, Mrs. Abigail Samson-Bugama, said on Monday in Jos the event was organised to commemorate the International Day of Older Persons.
Samson-Bugama said that day is globally observed on October 1 to show care and love to senior citizens and also take care of their basic health needs.
The founder said that the foundation would be conducting blood sugar screening for diabetes, blood pressure checks, eye examinations, and other general health checks, especially for those with frail bones.
She further said that the foundation would provide free treatment for any senior citizen diagnosed with cataracts during the checks as a means of showing them love and empathy and making them know there was help available.
She said the gesture was the foundation’s way of renewing the hope of the elderly.
“Many of the elderly are vulnerable and have probably lost hope and are struggling.
“We felt that bringing them together and offering support is the best way to give them a renewed sense of hope,” she said.
Dr David Barker, Medical Director, Jordan Eye Hospital, the consultant in charge of the free eye checks, said the foundation would avail the elderly of free eye consultations, medications, and reading glasses all at no cost.
Barker further said that any elderly individual diagnosed with cataracts, would have the surgery conducted free of charge.
Responding on behalf of the senior citizens, Mrs Nandi Ayuba commended the foundation for the free medical checks, particularly the free treatment of those diagnosed with cataracts. (NAN)
