Combating Elderly Poverty In Africa: A Force For Good

This issue deserves great seriousness, as the elderly population in most African communities is largely starved of resources and support. While it calls for conscious efforts at the community level, many elderly people cannot afford vital needs such as food, shelter, and medication. 

The Nmasinachi Charity Foundation is working to help overcome poverty among the elderly, thus enabling elderly Africans to live their lives with dignity and security. The reality of elderly poverty in Africa is that it is worsening in most African communities.

In 2010, there were about 43 million old people living in sub-Saharan Africa. That number is expected to rise to 67 million by 2025 and to 163 million by 2050. – WHO

This often makes elderly people in Africa among the most vulnerable populations in their societies. Most do not have access to pensions, health care, or social services; therefore, they depend on their family or communal ties for survival. However, the changes within the traditional family units weaken the support systems for the elderly, translating into higher rates of poverty and hardships for this age group.

Community Initiatives: A Lifeline for the Elderly

In various parts of Africa, communities are rising to the challenge of supporting their elderly with a raft of initiatives designed to cushion the impact of poverty and improve their lives. 

They include the following: 

Palliative Care and Medical Assistance: Community-based initiatives providing needed medical attention and medication, and also palliative care for the elderly.

Nutritional Support: Ensuring that the elderly get nutritious meals to address malnutrition and food insecurity among them.

Shelter and Housing: Safe and comfortable housing for homeless elderly people and those living in inadequate conditions.

Financial Assistance: Programs with stipends, pensions, or other forms of financial assistance to aid the elderly in covering basic needs.

Role of NGOs in Elderly Care:

NGOs like the Nmasinachi Charity Foundation also have a very vital role to play in supporting community efforts toward the solution of elderly poverty. NGOs should be able to contribute to scaling up locally through the provision of resources, advocacy, and management of programs in a way that will ensure that the requisite care and support reach the elderly. These NGOs cannot depend on generosity from people like you to make a meaningful impact. There are many practical ways of supporting African low-income widows and orphans

Impact of Combating Elderly Poverty:

Where poverty among the elderly is handled well at the community level, the effects are remarkable. The seniors who initially had to struggle day in and day out now have better health, an improved living environment, and enhanced economic security. Also, a reduction in elderly poverty fortifies the whole community toward being more caring and respectful of all members.

Conclusion:

Poverty in old age in African society involves development concerns, which is a contribution of every member of the society. Through community efforts and the involvement of NGOs like the Nmasinachiachi Charity Foundation, the elderly should and can have their golden years decently and comfortably. We can ensure that no elderly person has to endure poverty. 

Call to Action:

Join us today in the battle against elder poverty within African communities. If you would like to contribute to our elder care programs and affect meaningful change in the lives of Africa’s elderly, contact the Nmasinachi Charity Foundation today.

Upcoming Life-Changing Medical Mission!

For the improvement of the living standards of the people with access to health, The  Nmasinachi Foundation, USA, collaborates with Community Healthcare Network-NG, USA, and Father Isaac’s Foundation Inc., USA.

It is with great joy that we announce our forthcoming Free Medical Mission, which shall be held at St. Christopher Hospital, Umuhu-Atta, Ikeduru L.G.A., Imo State, Nigeria, from January 7th to 8th, 2025. Be part of the 2-day free healthcare mission serving and uplifting our communities.