Ukhrul, Oct 1 | EKHON: For many of the elderly men and women who gathered at the Tangkhul Theological Association (TTA) Hall in Ukhrul on Thursday, ageing is more than a matter of years. It is a lifetime of memories, changing communities and experiences gathered over decades, experiences they believe still have much to teach the generations that follow.
Their presence gave a human face to the International Day of Older Persons, observed in Ukhrul under the theme, “The Age of Longevity: Rethinking Systems of Life.” Around 200 senior citizens, officials and social workers came together for a programme that focused on healthy ageing, dignity and the need for stronger support for older people.
For a community where elders have traditionally been valued as custodians of knowledge, tradition and experience, the gathering was also a reminder that respect for older persons must extend beyond words to healthcare, social security and everyday support.
Dr Nelson Vashum, adviser to the Tangkhul Naga Long and the resource person at the programme, said older people possess experiences that can serve as “priceless lessons” for younger generations. He stressed that society must ensure that senior citizens are cared for with dignity while their needs are adequately addressed.
The discussion also turned to a question that becomes increasingly important as people live longer: how can those additional years be made healthier?
Dr Vashum cautioned against tobacco use, whether through smoking or chewing, excessive food consumption and high intake of red meat. He encouraged senior citizens to include green leafy vegetables and locally grown organic food in their diets and to seek medical attention whenever necessary, taking their physical condition into account.
But the message was not simply about care and dependency. Dr Vashum encouraged older persons to remain active in society and continue sharing their knowledge and experience. He also called upon the authorities to provide the facilities and support required by senior citizens.
The programme, organised by the Ukhrul District Headquarters Kharar Long in collaboration with the District Social Welfare Office, Ukhrul, and the Institute of Goodwill Foundation, Ukhrul, also brought some practical support to the elderly. The District Social Welfare Office handed over old-age pension cards to 43 beneficiaries.
Folk songs performed by cultural troupes from different localities added a celebratory note to the gathering, while gifts were presented to the participating senior citizens.
As the programme drew attention to the realities of ageing, the gathering in Hamleikhong offered a broader reflection on what it means to grow old in a changing society, and whether longevity can be accompanied by the dignity, health, security and sense of belonging that older people deserve.
