“Ageing with Dignity” is theme for Senior Citizens Week

In our youth oriented society, they may not have the political muscle that they deserve, but fear not, Belize’s grey panthers are still kicking up dust… especially this week.

Jacqueline Woods, Reporting
There may have been far more junior than senior citizens at the official opening of Senior Citizens Week, but the folks at Helpage Belize would not have had it any other way. The organisation is concerned that problems with the young mean trouble for everyone.

Sr. Elsa Oliva, S.A.C., 2nd Vice Chairman, Helpage Belize
“The only way we can expect the youth to behave the way we do is for us to educate them from now. I think we need to put values in them; they need to develop the value of appreciation… Our youths of today need to learn that we all need to help each other, take care of each other, respect each other, love each other; no one is an island.”

Just how many younger persons will take the time out to get to know an older person or help a senior citizen over the next six days is anybody’s guess, but primary school students are being encouraged to do their part in letting older persons know that they are still very much appreciated.

Jaimala Vasquez, 1st Vice Chairman, Helpage Belize
“It’s time to give love, give them time. Money alone and taking care of their needs is not enough. What we are trying to tell them is spend time with them. And also, mostly, to make sure that the elderly knows that you need them.”

Senior Citizens Week will be celebrated under the theme: Ageing with Dignity.