BY Daniel Bampoe
The Member of Parliament for Akuapem North Constituency, Samuel Kwabena Awuku, has reaffirmed his commitment to improving the welfare of older persons, describing support for the aged as both a social responsibility and a reflection of how society values the generation that laid the foundation for the present.
Awuku made the remarks when his office, in partnership with the Centre for Ageing Studies (CFAS) at the University of Ghana, supported a major programme to mark the 2026 International Day of Older Persons at Akropong-Akuapem.
The 2026 International Day of Older Persons is being observed under the theme “The Age of Longevity – Rethinking Systems for Longer Lives,” reflecting growing international concern about how countries can ensure that longer lives are accompanied by dignity, healthcare, income security and protection of rights.
The programme brought together hundreds of elderly residents from communities within the Akuapem North area for medical screening, health education, food and other forms of assistance. Wheelchairs and other basic support items were also presented to elderly persons with mobility challenges.
The MP, who sponsored the event, said caring for older people should not be viewed merely as a political or institutional responsibility but as a human obligation, noting that every generation ultimately passes through the ageing process.
He said the elderly deserved respect, affection, dignity and practical support because they had contributed to the development of their families and communities over many decades.
He drew attention to the traditional wisdom that the elderly people seen in society today were once young like the present generation, arguing that the manner in which society treats older people today would provide a measure of how future generations might treat today’s younger population.
Awuku said his decision to collaborate with the Centre for Ageing Studies was therefore intended to provide practical assistance to elderly residents while also creating awareness about the challenges associated with ageing.
He noted that the programme was designed to address some immediate needs through healthcare, mobility assistance and other basic support, while giving older persons an opportunity to interact with professionals and service providers
The MP said he was particularly encouraged by the presence of centenarians at the programme, including a 100-year-old woman and a 101-year-old man.
According to him, the presence of people who had lived for more than a century offered a powerful reminder of the possibilities of longevity and the responsibility of society to create conditions in which people could age with dignity.
Sammi Awuku also used the occasion to call attention to the need for stronger institutional support for Ghana’s ageing population, particularly through legislation.
He expressed support for renewed efforts towards the passage of legislation specifically addressing the welfare and rights of older persons, arguing that the issue should receive sustained attention from Parliament.
The Centre for Ageing Studies has previously called for the speedy passage of the Aged Persons’ Bill, saying such legislation would strengthen protections for older people and provide a clearer framework for addressing their social, economic and healthcare needs.
Director of the Centre for Ageing Studies, Rev. Prof. Joseph Osafo Adu, also used the programme to renew the call for stronger national systems for elderly care.
He said Ghana had been discussing legislation on ageing for years and urged Parliament to treat the matter with urgency.
Prof. Osafo Adu argued that Ghana’s demographic transition made it increasingly important for the country to strengthen healthcare, social protection and other support systems for older persons.
