Roundtable of different professionals in Rwanda on aging

 Sazana Ishema Aging Centre (SIAC)   organized a roundtable on aging. It held  on 24 July 2024, at SIAC office located in  Rwanda, Southern Province, Muhanga District, Nyarusange sector, Mbiriri cell, Gikomero site.

This Roundtable gathered 110 participants from Boston University, Five Universities in Rwanda including University of Rwanda (UR), Catholic University of Rwanda (CUR), Protestant University of Rwanda (PUR), Institute Catholic of Kabgayi (ICK)  and University of technology and Arts of Byumba( UTAB). There were also    different government, health and religious  institutions.    

The main objective of this roundtable was  to discuss aging globally, regionally and locally to identify some of challenges and opportunities to help people to age well.

This roundtable helped participants to know the role of their institutions in responding to challenges that affect elders and how to collaborate with other stakeholders in aging area.

 Some of participants in Roundtable

Elders’ participants                        Health participants                      Youth participants 

Lecturers in Universities                            Religious Leaders         Other organisations

Proposed strategies to help people to age well

• Educational Programs: Implement programs to teach young people that aging is a blessing, fostering a positive societal mindset towards elders.

• Advocacy Efforts: Strengthen advocacy for elder rights and needs, involving both local and national stakeholders in policy-making processes.

• Family and Community Support: Develop initiatives to strengthen family structures, educate families on best practices for elder care, and mobilize community support.

• Health and Medical Care: Increase access to medical equipment, establish special medical care services, and promote regular health screenings and preventive care.

• Productivity and Engagement: Encourage elders to remain productive through involvement in meaningful activities, volunteer opportunities, and community engagement.

• Financial Management: Expand access to saving schemes, teach financial management skills, and support elders in achieving financial security.

• Technology Integration: Promote the use of technology among elders to help them stay connected and informed, providing training and support as needed.

• Spiritual and Emotional Well-being: Foster spiritual well-being through faith-based programs and ensure regular home visits and follow-up care to provide emotional support.

• Comprehensive Programs: Develop and implement programs that address both the individual and collective needs of elders, from grassroots initiatives to national policies.

• National Representation: Establish a national subcommittee of elders to represent their interests and contribute to decision-making processes.

• Household Assistance: Provide assistance with household chores to ensure elders live comfortably.

• Substance Avoidance: Encourage elders to avoid drugs, tobacco, and alcohol to promote healthier lifestyles.