Officials of the Dominica Council on Aging Inc (DCOA) are calling for more subvention from the government to assist them in their work.
The members of the Dominica Council on Ageing led by the Council staff are preparing to observe the Month of the Elderly, come September.
DCOA Inc’s theme for the Month of the Elderly is: “Building Our Resilience” and at a press briefing its President Ophelia Maria stated that “this was inspired by the United Nations theme for the International Day of Older (IDOP) Persons.”
“The Resilience & Contributions of Older Women”. The Council aims to build, strengthen and boost the resilience of our Seniors.
She stated that while they are thankful for the contribution of the government of $16,500.00 a year, much more is needed to help the work of the organization. “We are thankful for the gesture that pays for staff and our office rent, but that is not enough, we have spoken to the Minister and also the PS who has promised her to further look into the matter,” Marie said.
Government she said needs to review the amount of its subvention since the organization must pay a field officer, is without a vehicle, and has to meet the daily needs of the elderly who are without the necessary help and support.
She also laments about the “abuse” that is being meted out to the elderly. “They are abused by family members, they are raped, they are abused financially and also neglected and needs a support group to look after them, the abuse on the elderly is real and touching,” she stated.
She also disclosed that the Minister of Youth Development and Empowerment, Youth at Risk, Gender Affairs, Seniors’ Security, and Dominicans with Disabilities; Dr. Adis King is on board with the DCOA and will officially be launching the Month of the Elderly on September 1 with a National Address.
The DCOA has incorporated a series of creative events to allow its members and the general public to participate in the observance of the Month of the Elderly. These include video competitions, Grandparents Day, honoring long-standing members and contributions to the development of the 29-year-old organization, a cake sale, socks day, training programmes, Centenarian’s Day, and panel discussions
The month promises newness, as well as opportunities for learning and fun, and will culminate with an address by the Patron of the DCOA and the country’s Head of State, His Excellency Charles Savarin.