The issue was pointed out during a a seminar organized by the Rwanda Elders Advisory Council (REAF) that was studying the quality of life of elders in Rwanda, yesterday18th May 2018.
Among problems that were pointed out by the senior citizens are; lack of medical doctor specialized in the treatment of the elderly adults (geriatric physicians), major depressive disorder or clinical depression, severe loneliness,alienation, abuse and neglect.
The president of Nsindagiza, an association of the elderly, Mushimiyimana Beatrice said that a recent survey done among the elderly people identified poor access to primary health care as a common concern.
This was further supported by the Rwanda Elders Advisory Council (REAF), Dr Iyamuremye Augustin, who pointed out that geriatricians whose specialty is taking care of the adults are lacking in the country.
Dr Rwamasirabo Emile who gave an insight into several diseases that are common among the elderly said that giving them healthcare support is vital to their well-being and longevity.
“It is not doing them a favor because they have a right to healthcare,” Dr Rwamasirabo said.
The Government of Rwanda supports the elderly through the Vision Umurenge Programme (VUP) through which many are given cash and health insurance.
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