Hassan Khan, the chairperson of the Pearce Home board of Trustees, has highlighted the significant oversight of the elderly during natural disasters. During a recent Q&A session following the soft launch of the Fiji Council of Social Services’ (FCOSS) Community Feedback Mechanism in Suva, Khan pointed out that elderly individuals are frequently overlooked—not out of malice, but due to their age.
He emphasized the need to address ageism, which refers to the discrimination based on age, and suggested that families should designate at least one person to be a trained caregiver for their elderly relatives. This is crucial, especially as younger family members frequently migrate for better opportunities, leaving behind an aging population that needs support.
Khan also raised concerns about the appropriateness of using schools as evacuation centers, stating that schools are designed for children and their facilities should cater to them. He argued that evacuation centers should also be equipped to accommodate the needs of disabled individuals and the elderly.
Furthermore, Khan urged the community to take responsibility for its own welfare rather than relying solely on government assistance, which may become increasingly difficult given rising costs. He called for better frameworks to ensure the needs of vulnerable populations, including the elderly, are adequately addressed during emergencies.
This discussion serves as a reminder of the importance of inclusivity and preparedness for all community members, particularly those who are often marginalized. As families adapt to the changing demographics and migration trends, fostering a culture of care and proactive planning can lead to a more resilient society in the face of disasters.
Overall, by bringing attention to the needs of the elderly, there is potential for communities to strengthen their support systems and ensure that no one is left behind during times of crisis.
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