Angela Onwuzoo
Towards improving healthcare for the elderly in the country, the JBS Gerontology Centre, Lagos, has unveiled a Geri-Care Health Scheme specially designed to address the health needs of senior citizens aged 60 and above.
The unveiling of the initiative underscores the centre’s commitment to enhancing elderly healthcare, offering families a viable solution to ensure their aging loved ones receive timely and quality care, particularly when distance poses a challenge.
JBS Gerontology Centre is Nigeria’s first private geriatric hospital and specialist centre for the elderly.
The Geri-Care Health Scheme is a bold response by the centre to the pressing need for affordable and accessible elderly care in Nigeria.
The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Tunji Alausa, in his remarks at the unveiling, held at the JBS Gerontology Centre in Lekki recently, said the initiative was a significant step towards achieving the federal government’s vision for a revitalised healthcare system.
Alausa said the scheme signifies a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s healthcare landscape, adding that it represents a proactive approach to tackling the unique health challenges faced by the elderly, which emphasises the importance of preventative care and early intervention.
The minister commended the centre for its forward-thinking approach to geriatric care, stating, “JBS is setting a new standard for elderly care, a vital service as our population ages.
“The Geri-Care Health Scheme is a shining example of how private sector innovation can complement government efforts to improve healthcare outcomes.”
Globally, individuals aged 60 and above account for nearly 40 per cent of healthcare utilisation, yet this demographic often remains underserved in healthcare plans.
According to the World Health Organisation, the proportion of the world’s population over 60 years will nearly double from 12 per cent to 22 per cent by 2050. In Africa, this demographic shift is occurring at an even more accelerated pace.
JBS Gerontology Centre founder, Dr. Olutoyin Akande-Ajala, emphasised the centre’s vision of addressing the gaps in healthcare for the elderly in the country by ensuring that senior citizens receive the comprehensive care necessary to remain healthy, active, and supported throughout their golden years.
Akande-Ajala said, “By providing accessible and reliable healthcare, the Geri-Care Health Scheme aims to support seniors in leading healthy, fulfilling lives.
“At JBS, we understand that the elderly require frequent and specialised healthcare. The Geri-Care Health Scheme fills a critical gap in Nigeria’s healthcare system. Our goal is to reassure families that, regardless of distance, their aging loved ones will always have access to top-tier care.”
The United Kingdom-certified consultant geriatrician noted that the scheme was designed to comprehensively support senior citizens’ health and well-being through a variety of tailored services.
“It includes regular health assessments performed by trained geriatric specialists, ensuring effective monitoring and management of health conditions. To alleviate financial burdens on families, the Geri-Care Health Scheme also provides affordable inpatient and outpatient care.
“Furthermore, the initiative encourages active and social engagement among seniors by offering activities that promote both physical and mental well-being. Participants will also have access to essential medical supplies, equipping them with the necessary resources for their daily health needs”, the geriatrician said.
She stated that the scheme operates on a subscription-based model, delivering specialised geriatric services that provide both enrollees and their families peace of mind with on-demand access to quality healthcare.
According to her, with quarterly subscription plans available across various service categories, the scheme ensures that seniors can receive affordable and comprehensive medical care, regardless of their location.
Akande-Ajala concluded, “Our elders are the pillars of our society, and it is our responsibility to ensure they receive the care they deserve. The Geri-Care Health Scheme is more than just a service; it’s a commitment to honouring our seniors and enhancing their quality of life. The scheme is specially designed to provide the seniors with comprehensive care that ensures they stay healthy, active, and supported throughout their golden years.”
Other health experts who spoke at the event described the initiative as timely, as Nigeria, like the rest of the world, faces the challenges of a rapidly aging population.
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