The Ministry of Women, Children, and Social Protection has taken swift action to safeguard the well-being of elderly residents at the Golden Age Home in Lautoka. Following assessments that deemed the facility unsafe due to termite damage, bed bug infestations, and general deterioration, thirty-one residents, comprising 15 women and 16 men, have been relocated to the Matanakilagi House. The temporary move aims to protect the residents while renovations are initiated at the long-standing aged care home.
The Ministry assured that the health and care needs of the residents would continue to be met during this transition. Full-time support is being maintained at the Matanakilagi House to ensure that service continuity is upheld. Renovation plans for the Golden Age Home are underway, although a definitive timeline for completion and the return of residents has yet to be established.
This situation reflects a broader crisis in the aged care sector in Fiji, which has been described as reaching “pandemic” levels. Other facilities, including The Home of Compassion and Father Law Home, are concurrently grappling with financial constraints and structural issues. These challenges have drawn keen public attention, and facilities have been seeking urgent assistance to address their needs.
While the crisis underscores significant challenges, it has also highlighted a concerted community response. Individuals, businesses, and organizations have demonstrated a strong willingness to support initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for elderly residents. Lynda Tabuya, the Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of senior citizens, reiterating the Ministry’s commitment to elder care.
As the Golden Age Home prepares for renovation, the response from the community underscores the potential for positive outcomes through collective efforts. This spirit of cooperation reflects a hopeful outlook for overcoming challenges in Fiji’s aged care sector and upholding the dignity of its elderly population.
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