Health tech firm canvasses better deal for senior citizens

Disturbed by their marginalisation in the society, a health technology company, Gerocare, has canvassed improved medicare for the elderly to reduce burden of preventable diseases and deaths.

The founder, Dr. Ebi Ofrey, made the appeal at a virtual press conference to mark the firm’s fifth anniversary holding from August 29 to September 2, 2022.

He traced the high burden of preventable diseases, deteriorating health conditions and untimely deaths among the elderly to lack of access to geriatric care.

According to him, care for the elderly should be improved, noting that many Nigerians were losing their parents and senior citizens to various non-communicable diseases.

He said: “Elderly persons in Nigeria are losing their lives to various non-communicable diseases. To bridge these health service gaps, Gerocare was established to provide regular physician home visits to the elderly to prevent deterioration in their health, maintain a healthy state and improve their quality of life.

“We do this by identifying and managing their health conditions in a timely manner, thereby not only improving their quality of life, but also ensuring peace of mind for both the elderly and their loved ones.”

Also speaking, the co-founder, Dr. Ajibola Meraiyebu, said subscribers to the company’s platform receive regular and detailed updates on their health statuses, steps to take to prevent illnesses and efficient ways to manage their health.

He hinted that the company was working to reach more underserved persons and extend its services to Ethiopia and South Africa.

Meraiyebu said his firm was promoting preventive healthcare through health education and care, which remind the elderly that they are loved, with their wellbeing prioritised.

On the fifth anniversary celebration, the co-founder said the scheduled activities reflect the company’s slogan of “Care for life.”

He listed some of the programmes to include health walk and talk, dance for wellness and social networking.