Dear Editor,

As we age we become more vulnerable because our cognitive functions tend to slow. Jamaica’s track record regarding the senior population is not admirable and elder abuse comes in numerous manifestations.

On Wednesday, June 21, I was at work when I received a call from my mother who stated that a lady from the pension’s office visited the house and instructed that both my parents sign a document. I detected a sense of confusion and concern in my mother’s voice. I questioned both parents to ascertain the name of the lady and whether the individual showed them an identification card, they answered in the negative.

While both parents are recipients of the Social Pension Programme, the manner in which the Ministry of Labour and Social Security went about this reverification process is unacceptable and opens a pathway to potential harm to seniors. The Social Pension Programme facilitated through the Ministry of Labour and Social Security targets all Jamaican citizens 75 years and older who are not currently in receipt of a pension, retirement, old-age or disability benefit or income, and are not living in a government institutionalised care facility.

While this Social Pension Programme is appreciated, the Ministry of Labour and Social Security should have embarked on a public education programme in order to better prepare the beneficiaries for what to expect regarding visits from social workers or field officers for this reverification process. Additionally, such employees from the labour ministry should have visible identification cards, given that we live in a high-risk culture. What consideration is given to those senior citizens who might have challenges regarding literacy?

Sadly, we continue to hear of many elders being scammed and, therefore, more protection is needed for this most vulnerable group. Unfortunately, we are still unsure of the individual who visited the home. Perhaps, the Ministry of Labour and Social Security can assist here for peace of mind.

Maybe this can serve as a teaching and learning moment. We must work harder to show our elders the care and respect they deserve.

Wayne Campbell

waykam@yahoo.com