25 Sep 2024

A team of retired health practitioners and other volunteers has engaged in a philanthropic initiative of providing the elderly with health care services. 

Formerly with Princess Marina Hospital, a retired Medical Prosthetist Orthotist (Orthopedic Engineer), Mr Somasundaram Nambi, has revealed in an interview on September 24, that a team of retired health personnel in various fields came together and were now engaged in extending their health expertise to the elderly in rural communities. 

Mr Nambi said through Project Happiness, a medical camp bringing hope and care to the elderly, their journey of reaching out to the community with healthcare services started Rasesa in the Tswapong region on Sunday. 

He said a team of retired health practitioners of Dr Sunil Kadiyala, Ms Vandhana Mahajan, Dr Swetha Pavan, retired Professor Gabatshwane Tsayang formerly with the University of Botswana and other dedicated volunteers conducted the health camp, which attracted 65 elderly people. 

He said the project was a critical initiative as it was meant to address health challenges affecting senior citizens. “The critical project was hatched after realising the challenging conditions many elderly people face, including isolation, loneliness, and poor health,” he said. 

He said Prof. Tsayang was one of the key initiators of the project. “In collaboration with Dr Kadiyala, she organised the camp, which specifically catered to villagers aged 80 and above,” he said.

He said the project primarily highlighted on the importance of caring for the elderly, as showing them affection not only brings happiness but also helps them feel recognised and appreciated for their contributions to their families, communities and society. 

He said the during the health camp the elders received comprehensive medical services, including the management of both acute and chronic conditions, along with the necessary care such as the administration of injections. 

In addition, he said there was strong focus on education, particularly in disease prevention and maintaining good health. 

He said diabetic patients were given valuable lifestyle tips based on blood sugar tests conducted by health professionals. 

Furthermore, he said patients in need of further care were referred to appropriate clinics and hospitals for follow-up treatment such as the Palapye Primary Hospital and the Princess Marina Referral Hospital. 

He also said healthcare providers in the locality were urged to continue making follows up with the elderly for further medical care and recommendations. 

He said based on the success of the initial health camp, funds and resources permitting, they were determined to continue with extending their benevolent exercise of giving health service to the community. Ends