Age Demands Action (ADA) campaign emphasising on eliminating age discrimination and make people aware of the issues of the older people was launched here on Friday. The campaign was organised by HelpAge International to honour the elderly of the country on the International Day for Older Persons.
"Our senior citizens are one of the most invaluable assets and they have the wisdom that can change our lives for better." In order to pay tribute to their invaluable contribution to the society, the Islamabad Traffic Police and HelpAge International spread age friendly messages through the distribution of badges, stickers and pamphlets in Islamabad, Khyber-Pakhtoonkhaw (KPK) and Sindh.
"Healthy elderly are a part of development - live healthy, age healthy".
"Old age is not a disease, it is a phase of live that we live" and "Respect the old people while driving, they deserve it" are some of the key messages that are being promoted through this campaign. At times of emergencies, such as the 2010 floods in the country, the older people's needs are often left unattended.
Their weakness exaggerates due to several reasons such as malnutrition, lack of access to medical camps, changing weather, hygiene situation, skin diseases and fear of hopelessness. The elderly do not get access to the aid as their condition often does not allow them to reach the distribution points and stand in the queues.
They have been supporting us through out and deserve the best of our attention. It is very important to take account of their needs as well along with the other vulnerable groups. There is a need to help the older people claim their rights, challenge discrimination and overcome poverty so that they can lead dignified, secure, active and healthy lives.
The Ministry of Social Welfare, along with HelpAge International and partners are working for the betterment of the condition of older people. It is our responsibility to keep the senior citizens of our country in the best possible state, as they are the most deserving assets who are to be kept polished. Profoundly, our target group, the enthusiastic youth and the students, have taken profound interest in this campaign to volunteer in spreading this vital message across the nation.
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