Kenya Urged to Regulate Elderly Care Homes to Ensure Dignity
The mistreatment of elderly people at PCEA Thogoto Care Home in Kenya has sparked calls for the government to regulate homes for the elderly to guarantee their dignity. Stanley Kamau, the CEO of Ahadi Kenya Trust, has emphasized the need for close monitoring of these facilities.
The PCEA Thogoto Care Home, located in Kikuyu, Kiambu county, is operated by the Presbyterian Church of East Africa. While the home was established by the Women’s Guild of the PCEA church, it is managed independently. Unfortunately, recent revelations of alleged mistreatment have brought the issue to the forefront.
Kamau expressed his disappointment at the situation, stating, What happened in Thogoto is not only sad but unfortunate. I’m not defending the PCEA church or the home, but if it’s true what is alleged happened, I think we have let down our elderly people in our society as a country. I don’t want to believe what happened to those elderly people in Thogoto is true.
He further called for prompt investigations into the alleged assault, acknowledging that the PCEA church has already initiated its own inquiry in response to the disturbing claims made in a documentary by BBC.
During a recent event in Bobasi constituency, Kisii county, Kamau and university professor Samuel Siringi distributed blankets, maize, and wimbi flour to hundreds of elderly individuals in attendance. This initiative aims to provide some relief to them during the cold season. Kamau also highlighted the prevalence of violence against the elderly, particularly in Kisii and Coast regions, where they are often targeted and accused of witchcraft.
Elderly people should be treated with dignity, and their welfare should be a priority for families. It is backwardness and unfortunate to kill elderly people. The authorities in Kisii, Nyamira, and Coast regions should step up their efforts to end these heinous killings, Kamau emphasized.
The need for regulation and oversight in elderly care homes is clear. The government must ensure that the elderly receive proper care, respect, and protection. By implementing robust regulations and increasing monitoring, Kenya can create an environment where the dignity and wellbeing of its elderly population are safeguarded.
The mistreatment of elderly individuals is a serious issue that requires immediate attention. It is crucial for society as a whole to address these concerns and work towards a society that upholds the rights and wellbeing of all its citizens, regardless of age.
