Waves Foundation celebrates Tobago senior citizens

PRESIDENT of the Waves (Women Adding Value to the Elderly) Foundation Janice George Berkeley says funding is the major issue confronting the organisation.

She said despite this challenge, members have continued to plan and carry out activities for the elderly using the resources at their disposal.

Apart from the contributions they may get occasionally from good Samaritans, members often have to dig deep into their own pockets to ensure the objectives of their various initiatives are met.

“This brings great satisfaction as our focus is to retain and maintain the value of our elderly folks,” George Berkeley told Newsday.

“We realise that many activities and events cater to more youthful and abled members of our society, but not many are geared specifically to the needs of our senior citizens. They are here among us and will continue to be and they must be made visible.”

Last week, the foundation, which was established in March 2020, commemorated Senior Citizens Day with a week of activities throughout the island. Senior Citizens Day is celebrated globally on August 21.

Celebrations began with a meet-and-greet on the Scarborough Esplanade, Milford Road, where senior citizens were treated to light refreshments. Hampers and care packages were also distributed to those in need.

George Berkeley said the celebrations ended on August 27 with a “small island tour” from the Esplanade to Fort King George. The event was organised by the members of the junior and senior executive team.

She said the seniors in attendance described the event as “very pleasant and enjoyable.

“They are looking forward to more of this, as well as other events catered just for them.”

George Berkeley said a spokesman for the group, Elton Richardson, praised the foundation for its efforts in catering specifically to the needs of the elderly.

Richardson, she added, also expressed his desire to stay close to the group as they plan future events.

George Berkeley said it is important to cater to the social needs of  senior citizens to prevent loneliness and isolation.

“Many of them were very active in society when they were younger and gave of their time and abilities. It is now our time to give back, to remember and continue to recognise and appreciate them. I believe having them socially engaged will improve their general well-being.”

She added social activities will also keep them connected to their friends, help them develop relationships and keep their minds active.

“Having something, some event to look forward to will definitely improve their general outlook on life, even in their late years.”

George Berkeley also believes the elderly thrive better when they know they are a part of something.

“The Waves Foundation is committed to doing just that – catering to their needs. And it is very satisfying for us as a group. We remain focused as we plan, organise and execute. The joy that comes from interacting with our elders, socialising with them when we have events and learning from their wealth of knowledge, cannot be measured in monetary terms.”

She said the foundation’s youth arm comprises young men and women, who are excited to meet, share and interact with the elderly. “They see it as both a rewarding and fulfilling experience. The eagerness and willingness displayed by these young people are absolutely amazing.”

George Berkeley said apart from its social activities, they also reach out to those who may be in need of foodstuff, toiletries and even support equipment such as walkers and air mattresses.

“But one of our challenges is meeting the needs of those elderly (people) who are bedridden or not able to leave their homes.”

She said since the foundation’s inception, it has undertaken various activities with the elderly.

“We have been able to do manicures and pedicures and even make social visits where we just chat with them.”

George Berkeley said while these things may seem frivolous to some people, “to these elderly they are moments to treasure.”

She hopes the foundation will continue to grow and that others will share in its mission and vision to meet the needs of  "our delicate treasures.”