KINGSTON, Jamaica — Opposition Spokesperson on Gender, the Elderly and Persons with Disabilities, Denise Daley has urged Jamaicans to renew their commitment to protecting and supporting the nation’s elderly population, as the country joins the world in marking the International Day of Older Persons.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Daley described older persons as “the backbone of our society,” highlighting their roles as teachers, caregivers, cultural bearers, and nation builders. She stressed, however, that too many continue to face “neglect, abuse, social isolation, and inadequate support.”

“This year’s observance reminds us of the invaluable role our elders continue to play in shaping our communities and preserving our values, even as they face new and complex challenges,” Daley said.

She encouraged Jamaicans to reflect not only on how they treat elders in their households but also on how national policies and institutions address their needs. Respecting and protecting older persons, she added, is both “a moral obligation” and “an investment in the values of justice, compassion, and continuity that hold our nation together.”

Daley called for a Jamaica where elders are fully included in national life, supported with proper care, and celebrated for their wisdom and resilience.

“To all our elders: we thank you, we honour you, and we pledge to stand with you,” she concluded.