By Dr. Maurice M. Pepela, Ph.D
Access to free and quality health care is a critical element of social protection, particularly for senior citizens who have served Kenya in various capacities throughout their lives.
These individuals, having contributed to the nation’s development across sectors such as public service, education, healthcare, agriculture, and the military, deserve dignity, security, and well-being in their later years.
Ensuring that they receive adequate health services is not only a moral obligation but also a practical investment in social stability and national cohesion.
Unfortunately, the current healthcare landscape in Kenya often leaves many older adults struggling with high out-of-pocket costs, inadequate health infrastructure, and limited access to age-appropriate medical care.
The aging process naturally increases the demand for healthcare, with senior citizens often facing multiple chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, arthritis, and cardiovascular diseases.
This necessitates continuous medical attention, yet many elderly Kenyans cannot afford regular treatment due to limited pensions or lack of income. By offering free, quality healthcare to senior citizens, the government can significantly reduce their vulnerability and enhance their quality of life.
Expanding the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) coverage to include all senior citizens, regardless of their previous employment status, and ensuring that the services covered include diagnostics, medication, rehabilitation, and home-based care, would be a decisive step forward.
Furthermore, health care facilities must be made senior-friendly, with well-trained geriatric care providers and infrastructure adapted to the needs of older adults.
Offering free healthcare to senior citizens also acknowledges their lifelong contributions and reinforces a culture of respect and gratitude.
Establishing dedicated geriatric units in public hospitals and integrating community-based care programs would bring essential services closer to the elderly, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
The use of mobile clinics and telemedicine can also be leveraged to reach seniors who face mobility challenges. These measures would not only improve access but also reduce the strain on caregivers, many of whom are family members balancing economic activities with elder care responsibilities.
Offering free healthcare to senior citizens also acknowledges their lifelong contributions and reinforces a culture of respect and gratitude.
This can serve as a unifying national ethos, encouraging future generations to view aging positively and fostering intergenerational solidarity. Additionally, such policies can help formalize and incentivize retirement planning, as individuals see a tangible commitment from the state to support them in old age.
This would enhance trust in public institutions and the broader social protection system.
In conclusion, providing free and quality healthcare to Kenya’s senior citizens is an indispensable pillar of a robust social protection framework. It addresses not only their physical and emotional needs but also affirms their value in society.
By implementing targeted health policies, increasing budgetary allocations for geriatric care, and strengthening existing health insurance schemes, Kenya can build a more inclusive and equitable healthcare system. Honoring those who have served the nation with dignity and care is a testament to a society that values all its members across the life course.
Dr. Pepela, Ph.D. is a Lecturer, Disaster Management Expert and a Strategic Foresight Expert at MMUST : Email: pmourice@gmail.com
