MANILA, April 9, 2011—The Episcopal Commission on Health Care conducted a symposium on Catholic Care for the aged on March 19 at the Paco Catholic School in Manila, in an effort to provide quality care for the elderly, understand their needs and make them feel they are part of society.
Speakers focused on the ways on how to concretely provide the best care for the aged as well as to make the remaining days of their life more meaningful.
Fr. Marcelo Pamintuan, the new executive secretary of the CBCP Health Care Commission, zeroed in on the spiritual dimensions of caring for the aged.
He also shared that he valued the wisdom of the old and explained how people can treasure their golden days with us.
Dr. Jose Leo V. Jiloca spoke about the growing number of old people and discussed the health care issues involving them, such as lack of trained health workers at various levels, and legislation that improves the protection of the elderly from abuse within the family or by the society.
He also gave participants an update about multi-sectoral meetings to plan for the elderly care.
Ricardo Pening talked about the Golden Acres as a “Haven for the Elderly.†He introduced their new home for the aged in Tanay, Rizal and the programs and services they offer to the elderly.
Since the aged are at great risk for falls, Mr. Edward James R. Gorgon, PTRP talked about “Fall Prevention†among old people and also demonstrated some exercises. Moreover, he discussed the possible ways for the elderly to avoid places that pose fall risk to them.
One hundred forty-two elderly people, caregivers, children and members of different organizations who work for the elderly attended the symposium.
Participants were later divided into groups to discuss the input of the speakers as well as their own experiences, to put together ideas for action.
Aside from free admission to the seminar, the commission also provided free snacks, lunch and free babysitting to attendees.(CBCPNews)
