The Edo State Government has assured improved access to quality and affordable healthcare for senior citizens in the state.

Addressing journalists during a free medical outreach for the elderly in Benin City, the Executive Secretary, the Edo State Primary Health Care Development Agency (EDSPHCDA), Dr. Izedonmwen Omosigho, said the outreach was organised in collaboration with Momentum Routine Immunization Transformation and Equity (M-RITE), Heartland Alliance LTD, and St Monica's Home for the Elderly.

The event was organized in commemoration of this year’s United Nations International Day of Older Persons with the theme, “Resilience of Older Persons in a Changing World.”

Omosigho urged the elderly to take issues relating to their health very seriously and wear a facemask to protect themselves from COVID-19 when they are at large gatherings, adding that regular checkups are key in improving their wellbeing.

The Director, Community and Family Health Services, Dr. Idemudia Osayomore, said more than ever before, the elderly require proper medical care which is why it is imperative to prioritise their safety because they are particularly susceptible to illnesses.

The outreach includes treatment of minor ailments which include hypertension, malaria, diabetics, advice and counselling on nutrition.

The Director of Disease Control and Immunization, Dr. Gideon Iraoyah expressed satisfaction with the turn out for the outreach programme, stating that the concern for the health and wellbeing of the elderly should not be left for the government alone but should be a collective effort between the government and other stakeholders in society.