Elderly homelessness is becoming an increasingly alarming issue in Fiji, particularly affecting individuals between the ages of 50 and 60. The Ministry of Women, Children, and Social Protection has verified this concerning trend through recent assessments, revealing that many of the homeless elderly are of Indo-Fijian descent. Minister Sashi Kiran emphasized that two-thirds of older persons living on the streets belong to this demographic.
Minister Kiran pointed out that it is particularly troubling to see more individuals in their 50s to 70s facing homelessness. The Ministry is prioritizing this issue in the upcoming national budget to ensure that street-dwelling elderly individuals are treated with dignity. She indicated that the Ministry is actively engaged in profiling and assessment efforts to develop exit plans for both younger and older individuals experiencing homelessness.
Adding to this context, similar reports highlight the increasing rates of suicide among the elderly in Fiji, which have become a significant concern. For instance, the Assistant Minister previously revealed that there were 19 suicides among seniors from January to August, a figure that signifies the grounds for alarm regarding elder neglect and isolation. Many elderly individuals feel abandoned as families migrate abroad in search of better opportunities, leading to devastating emotional impacts.
However, amidst these challenges, hopeful grassroots initiatives are emerging. Community volunteers and organizations are stepping in to support the elderly through social engagement activities aimed at improving their quality of life. The government’s commitment to this demographic, including the need for collaborative community action, indicates a potential path toward positive change for the elderly population in Fiji. Such efforts underline the importance of recognizing and valuing the contributions of older citizens, reinforcing the hope that no elder will be forgotten or left behind.
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