President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has directed the training of over 140 geriatricians within the next three years to strengthen specialised healthcare services for older persons across Uganda. The specialists will be deployed across all districts to provide medical care tailored to the needs of older people, whose population is estimated at 2.3 million. This initiative aims to bridge gaps in healthcare services for older persons and ensure they can access appropriate medical care closer to their communities.
The President issued the directive during the national celebrations to mark the International Day of Older Persons at State House, Entebbe. The theme of the celebrations was “Ageing with Dignity: Strengthening Care and Support Systems.” Geriatricians are medical doctors who specialise in the healthcare and treatment of older adults, with particular attention to health conditions and needs associated with ageing. This move is expected to improve the quality of life for older persons in Uganda.
Museveni also called for the development of a policy to protect older persons from threats to their property and strengthen social protection mechanisms for the elderly. He noted that older persons face increasing threats from family members, undisciplined children, and opportunists seeking to exploit their advanced age and vulnerability to take away their property. The President called for firm action against individuals who exploit older persons and deprive them of their wealth.
The President advised older persons to invest in productive assets such as land, livestock, and buildings, which can provide sustainable sources of income in old age. He encouraged elderly parents to adopt modern wealth-preservation and inheritance practices to safeguard family wealth for future generations. Museveni urged parents to involve their families in discussions about the management and preservation of their estates.
Museveni further advised older persons to prioritise healthy living by following health guidelines, maintaining proper nutrition, and engaging in regular physical exercise. He encouraged them to pursue investments that are less labour-intensive and better suited to their age, such as goat rearing. The President defended the 10 percent allocation for older persons under the Parish Development Model.
The Minister of State for Elder Persons, Jacqueline Mbabazi, outlined additional government measures aimed at strengthening the welfare, protection, and access to services for older persons. Mbabazi said the government plans to establish a health support scheme for older persons to address challenges in accessing healthcare services. Wellness centres will also be established to provide older persons with regular health checks and other preventive healthcare services.
The government is working on measures to protect older persons from opportunists who seek to exploit their vulnerability and take away their property. Legal support centres will be established to help older persons access justice and protect their rights. The Minister said the interventions are intended to strengthen social protection, economic empowerment, and the participation of older persons in community and national affairs.
Key points
- The training of 140 geriatricians aims to improve healthcare services for older persons in Uganda.
- The government plans to establish a health support scheme and wellness centres for older persons.
- The President emphasised the need to protect older persons from property exploitation and strengthen social protection mechanisms.
