Uganda joined the world on Wednesday to mark the International Day of Older Persons, with Vice President Rtd. Maj. Jessica Rose Alupo urging senior citizens to adopt healthier lifestyles to enjoy dignified ageing.
Speaking at St. John Secondary School playground in Jinja District, Alupo encouraged the elderly to focus on six key areas of life: healthy lifestyle, balanced diet, staying active, regular exercise, good company, and a sustainable income.
“These habits are essential for ensuring that older persons live longer, healthier, and more fulfilling lives,” Alupo said as she interacted warmly with senior citizens during the event.
The celebrations were also attended by the State Minister for Disability Affairs, Hellen Asamo, and the State Minister for the Elderly, Dominic Gidudu. Both ministers echoed the Vice President’s call, stressing the need for government and families to work together in supporting older persons.
Speakers highlighted common challenges affecting older Ugandans, including poverty, poor healthcare access, isolation, and neglect. The government was urged to strengthen social protection programs, such as the Senior Citizens Grant, to improve the welfare of the elderly.
Alupo called on communities and families to show more care and respect for older people, emphasizing that ageing with dignity should be everyone’s right.
“Every one of us is a potential older person. How we treat the elderly today will determine how we too are treated tomorrow,” she added.
The International Day of Older Persons is celebrated annually on October 1st, and this year’s theme focused on promoting healthy living and social inclusion for senior citizens.
