Older Persons Day: Sine Qua Non offers elderly free medical care

A non-governmental organisation, Sine Qua Non Foundation, has extended free medical care to elderly residents of Ita-Oluwo town in Ikorodu, Lagos, as part of activities marking the International Day of Older Persons.

The event, themed “Healthy Ageing Starts With Managing Your Vitals”, held on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at the Open Field, Ita-Oluwo, attracted over 100 senior citizens who received free health consultations, medications, and health education from the foundation’s medical team.

Speaking on the outreach, Project Manager of the Foundation, Henry Madufor, said the initiative focused on senior citizens to highlight the importance of their health and wellbeing.

“We came here to meet with the elderly, educate them on hypertension, and provide them with medical attention. We brought in doctors to teach them preventive measures and how to manage their vitals. This is part of our effort to fill the gap where government support is lacking,” Madufor explained.

He noted that the Foundation has been carrying out similar outreaches since last year, moving from one community to another to ensure elderly people receive the attention they deserve.

He also appealed for partnerships and public support to expand the programme across Nigeria.

A health education expert and medical practitioner, Dr. Dorothy Jaja, engaged the participants on safe healthcare practices. She cautioned against indiscriminate consumption of herbal mixtures sold by hawkers, stressing that while some herbs have proven efficacy, others could be harmful.

“If you must take herbs, prepare them yourself so you know their content. However, the best option in the event of illness is always the hospital, where proper diagnosis and treatment can be given,” she advised.

Dr. Jaja also led the elderly in simple exercises and offered practical tips on lifestyle and safety, including eating dinner before 7pm to aid digestion, avoiding quarrels and embracing healthy conversations with neighbours, wearing safe footwear instead of high heels or shoes with slippery soles, especially during the rainy season, and avoiding heavy lifting and seeking medical help promptly.

“Healthy ageing truly begins with managing your vitals. Always consult your doctor and take medications as prescribed,” she said.

The community head, His Royal Majesty Baale Monsuru Salako, praised the initiative, describing it as timely and life-enhancing for the aged population.

“This programme will go a long way in prolonging the lives of our elderly. I commend Sine Qua Non Foundation for bringing such a valuable medical outreach to our community,” he said.

Beneficiaries also expressed gratitude. Mrs. Alice Adebayo, who has lived with chronic knee pain for years, said she was relieved after receiving diagnosis and medication at no cost.

“The doctors examined me, explained my condition clearly, and gave me drugs free of charge. I am so grateful to the Foundation,” she said.

Another participant, 79-year-old Mr. Adebayo Samuel, commended the Foundation for easing the financial burden often associated with government hospitals.

“At public hospitals, we are required to pay for cards and drugs, which many of us cannot afford. This free service has really helped us,” he said.

The outreach underscored the importance of prioritising the health and wellbeing of older persons, while also highlighting the role of civil society in bridging healthcare gaps for vulnerable groups.