Orunsi WellCare Foundation, a non-profit organisation focused on mental health awareness and destigmatization, has partnered with the Office of the Lagos State First Lady to host an event themed “A Day Out with the Elderly.” 
   
The event held at the Johnson Jakande Tinubu (JJT) Park, Alausa was graced by Mrs. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, the wife of Lagos State Governor, who served as the special guest of honour.
 
The day commenced with free medical check-ups and food for the elderly who were the participants. This was followed by an interactive session where the Lagos State First Lady engaged with the attendees. 
 
The elderly were thereafter taken on a tour, including a visit to the Marina train station, where they participated in fun activities and explored iconic landmarks in Lagos.
 
In her remarks, Sanwo-Olu underscored the importance of celebrating senior citizens. “Our elders have served this nation and deserve to be celebrated. In many countries, those aged 60 and above enjoy benefits like free healthcare and allowances. We should work towards providing similar opportunities here,” she stated.

She also commended the Ministry of Youth and Social Development for its ongoing initiatives for the elderly and youth. Highlighting the contributions of Orunsi WellCare Foundation, she said, “This foundation is doing an excellent job in showing that we should care for our elders within the community.” 
 
Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the cultural barriers surrounding elderly care homes noting “ we should adapt to changing circumstances to ensure adequate care for elders.”
 
Dr. Ademola Gureje, the Technical and Logistics Lead for the Orunsi WellCare Foundation, revealed that the event was conceived to address neglect and isolation often faced by the elderly.  He explained that participants were selected from both government owned and private elderly care homes, with the be criterion being aged 65 or older and ambulatory.
 
“This is the first of its kind. We hope to expand this initiative beyond Lagos and continue to celebrate elders from diverse ethnic groups,” Dr. Gureje said.
 
Mrs. Olayemi Oyedepo, a retired civil servant from the Center for Happy Elderly People (CHEP), shared her joy at being part of the program. She praised the Lagos State First Lady and encouraged the government to invest in more elderly care homes to support senior citizens.
 
Miss Faith Blessing Christopher, a nurse caregiver from Winiseph Care Home, highlighted the challenges of working with the elderly. She noted that while her role has taught her patience, gaining the trust of some residents—especially those dealing with depression—can be difficult. “It takes time to build a connection with them, but it’s rewarding to see them open up eventually,” she said.