Hassan Khan, the chairperson of the Pearce Home Board of Trustees, highlighted a critical issue regarding the elderly during natural disasters at a recent Q&A session following the soft launch of the Fiji Council of Social Services’ (FCOSS) Community Feedback Mechanism in Suva. He pointed out that elderly individuals are often overlooked during emergencies, not by design, but rather as a consequence of age-related biases.
Khan underscored the importance of empowering families and communities by ensuring that at least one family member is trained to care for elderly relatives. He noted the increasing trend of younger people migrating away from their families, which exacerbates the challenge of providing adequate support for older family members left behind.
Furthermore, Khan raised concerns about using schools as evacuation centers, asserting that these facilities are primarily designed for children and may not adequately accommodate the needs of the elderly and disabled during crisis situations. He emphasized the necessity for a community-focused approach, suggesting that it is crucial to have a structured framework to address these issues comprehensively.
Khan’s message was clear: if communities do not take proactive measures to care for their vulnerable members, including the elderly, they should not expect external help in times of crisis. He concluded by emphasizing the increasing costs associated with neglecting this demographic, calling for collective responsibility within families and communities.
This discussion sheds light on the vital need for a culture of care and preparedness within society, particularly as both the aging population and issues related to migration become more prominent. By prioritizing the needs of older individuals, communities can foster a more compassionate and resilient response to disasters.
In a hopeful outlook, initiatives like the Community Feedback Mechanism can serve as a catalyst for meaningful change, encouraging families to take responsibility and cultivate an environment where the elderly are supported and valued.
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