‘Elders are a blessing to the society’

Kohima village 80plus citizens meet

Our Correspondent
Kohima | April 30  

An organisation has found a benevolent way to reorient the participation of the elderly in our society, as well increase their interface with each other.   Several 80plus citizens of Kohima village today gathered at Tsiera Hall, L. Khel to interact with each other and greet one another during the 11th Foundation Day celebration of Friends of 80plus here today.

  Gifts were offered to them including a medical check-up and treatment. The number of 80plus citizens in Kohima village stands at 167 at present.  

Friends of 80plus is a network and fellowship practice of placing highest value and respect to elders- the older the person becomes, the more valued he/she is. ‘Friends of 80plus’ is not for profit, and an entirely voluntary and benevolent fellowship.  

Members contribute in kind or cash in their own capacity. They commit to give at least once a month to the activities of the organization. They have a common interest to be friends of the 80plus people and serve them in whatever way possible. The programme was initiated for 80plus citizens of Kohima village.  

The objectives of Friends of 80plus is to document the stories and experiences of 80plus citizens, to reach out in friendship and fellowship through monthly home visits, offering gifts to them during festive seasons, accompany them to significant occasions/events, organize special programme for them once a year, to offer medical and other assistance to their physical needs and to give them psychological support which will enable them to retain their self esteem and self-respect as elders of the community.  

“Our younger generation should be made aware that the elderly are true blessings to the society; an asset and not a liability. We must treat them as treasures and make them feel wanted and not a burden. And to that extent ‘Friends of 80plus’ is contributing for last decade, which is highly commendable,” stated President of Kohima Village Gazetted Officers Association (KVGOA), Er. Keviletuo Yiese.