<<Print>>

An octogenarian A.K. Mensah asked Ghanaians to prepare adequately towards their retirement before they proceed on pension. He asked pensioners to cut down on the intake of alcohol so as to enjoy their old age. Mr A.K. Mensah made these remarks to mark the 22nd UN day for the aged. It is a day set aside to remember and reflect on the challenges facing the aged. Radio Ghana sampled the opinions of some experts in the management of the aged and the experiences of the aged. First Austin Gamey who helped in crafting the pension schemes for the aged said the love for humanity in the Ghanaian must reflect in the care for the aged. The Lead Pastor of Cedar Mountain Chapel of Assemblies of God's Church, Steve Wengham, said the Church has a lead role to play in providing support for the aged. Meanwhile, Help Age Ghana, an NGO dedicated to the promotion of the well being of the aged in society has urged the National Pensioners Association not to accept flimsy promises by politicians and political parties. The Association should instead remain resolute in demanding accountability and what is naturally due them . An official of Help Age Ghana, Mrs. Beatrice Woode gave the advice at the third National Delegates Conference of the National Pensioners Association in Kumasi. In a related development, the Minister of Employment and Social Welfare, Moses Asaga, says government will pilot a social pension scheme next year for older persons without any formal Social Security. He said this in a statement on the floor of Parliament to mark International Day for Older Persons.