Close to 200 elderly citizens aged 60 and above from Dorokha Dungkhag in Samtse came together to celebrate the International Day for Older Persons, today.
Bhutan has over 60,000 elderly people, constituting nearly nine per cent of the total population. Every year, the world marks the International Day for Older Persons, today, October 1st and so did the elderly population in Dorokha, Samtse.
Eighty-seven-year-old Ambar Singh Rai was the oldest among the elders gathered at the celebrations. Ambar was presented with a token for the same reason by the event organizers. But like him, most did not know exactly why they were invited to such an event.
One thing led to another and these elderly people were dancing to the musical chair game. This was the first time that these elders are taking part in such events.
“This is a happy moment. The day went well. We met, we talked, I am very happy. This moment may not come again for us. I will not be able to forget this moment,” said Ambar Singh Rai.
“We have never met like this. This is our first time. This event brought together everyone including young people, relatives, and officials. I am very happy about it,” added Nidup.
Amid the fun and laughter, some elders say they still have a lot of responsibilities.
“We the village elders have a responsibility to guide the current generation of young people and preserve the age old traditions in our villages. And pass on whatever we know about different laws to our children. This I think is very important,” said Tobgay, an elderly person.
As part of the celebrations, the elderly also got the opportunity to do health screening for blood pressure, body mass index, and other health issues.
This year’s theme, The Journey to Age Equality, recognizes that development only occurs and is achievable if all ages are included in that journey. The United Nations marked October 1 as the day to advocate for the rights of older people annually since 1990.
Sherub Dorji
