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Golden Designs Launches Hurricane Melissa Relief Drive for Senior Citizens

HURRICANE MELISSA howled through Jamaica, it left behind damaged homes, heartbreak, uncertainty, and loss. Among the hardest hit are our beloved senior citizens. Many of whom now live in unhealthy and unpleasant circumstances, struggling without power, clean water, food, or even basic clothing. At Golden Designs, we believe that our seniors, who have given so much to this country and their families, deserve dignity, care, and compassion. That’s why we’ve launched the Hurricane Melissa Relief Drive for Senior Citizens , a heartfelt initiative dedicated to bringing comfort and stability to older adults as they recover from this devastating storm. Standing with Our Seniors In this relief phase, our goal is simple yet vital. We aim to provide humanitarian assistance until some semblance of normalcy returns to the lives of our seniors. From now through the end of January, Golden Designs will be collecting and distributing relief supplies to senior citizens across the western parish...

Golden Designs Receives Heartfelt Support from Logos Hope Jamaica

Members of Golden Designs, Dr. Verona Barnes, second right, and Melva Yorke-Johnson, expressing appreciation for the sewing machines to Logos Hope Jamaica. GOLDEN DESIGNS is overjoyed to share that we are a proud recipient of Logos Hope’s Community Engagement initiative. Through this programme, our company has been blessed with three sewing machines and the priceless gift of time from Logos Hope volunteers who joined one of our art classes for seniors. For those unfamiliar, Logos Hope, affectionately known in Jamaica as the “book ship” , is much more than a floating bookstore. Owned and operated by GBA Ships, this vessel sails across the world promoting literacy, education, and cultural exchange. At every port, the Logos Hope team partners with local organisations, providing aid, encouragement, and opportunities that reflect God’s compassion for people of every background. A Welcome Gift to Empower Seniors The donation of three sewing machines could not have come at a better ...

Suicide Among Seniors: A Growing Concern

Ashley Thompson/Media Intern Today, on World Suicide Prevention Day, we are reminded of the critical importance of addressing mental health challenges and preventing the tragic loss of life through suicide. While the focus often turns to younger populations, it is crucial to shine a light on an often-overlooked group deeply affected by this issue — our seniors. As people age, the emotional, social, and physical challenges they face can increase their vulnerability to feelings of hopelessness and isolation, which may lead to suicide. This article explores the alarming rate of suicide among older adults, the unique factors that contribute to their struggles, and the steps we can take to support them in their most vulnerable moments. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in their 2023 article Suicide Prevention , defines suicide as a death caused by self-inflicted harm with the intent to die. Tragically, suicide does not discriminate by age, gender, race, or ethnicit...

A Balanced Senior: Tips on How to Maintain a Balanced Lifestyle as a Senior Citizen

Credit: Freepik.com Colliecia Wright/Media Intern A balanced lifestyle refers to having a sense of control and well-being in all areas of life. According to an article published by Physio West, written by Bec Clare (2020), balanced living involves achieving optimal health in various aspects including relationships, work, fitness, health, and emotional happiness. From an early age, we are taught the importance of balance in our lives. However, as we age, particularly upon entering the senior citizen stage, maintaining this balance can become challenging. The transition to this phase often brings many changes — retirement, adjustments in living environments, and new health challenges are common experiences for seniors. As an article by the World Health Organization (2022) points out, while some health variations among older adults are due to genetics, a significant portion is influenced by physical and social environments, such as their homes and communities, as well as personal fa...

Hurricane Preparedness Tips for Seniors: Getting Ready for Hurricane Beryl

Credit: ODPEM As Hurricane Beryl nears Jamaica, it’s essential for everyone, especially our senior citizens, to be well-prepared. The effects of a hurricane can be devastating, but with careful planning and preparation, you can ensure your safety and well-being. Here are some crucial tips to help seniors get ready for the potential impacts of Hurricane Beryl. 1. Create an Emergency Plan Emergency Contacts: Choose a contact person who will check on you during the hurricane, and decide how you will communicate (by telephone or knocking on doors). Make a list of people who can help you in times of disaster, including family members, doctors, pharmacies, caregivers, neighbours, and local emergency services. Medical Supplies: Ensure your medical information is readily available. Have an adequate supply of all necessary medications, medical equipment, and other health-related items to last at least seven days. Evacuation Plan: Know the nearest evacuation routes and shelters. Arran...

Elder Abuse Awareness: Understanding the Legal Aspects of Elder Care and Its Importance

Senior citizens are being encouraged to become knowledgeable about the various laws that protect their rights as older adults. While Jamaica does not have an Elder Abuse Act, several pieces of legislation can be used to prevent or punish elder abuse. Attorney-at-law, Tamara Francis Riley-Dunn, has expressed concern over the increasing cases of elder abuse, noting that many senior citizens suffer in silence. Elder abuse can take many forms and primarily occurs due to the vulnerability and dependence experienced by seniors. “It is accepted that our elders are 60 years and older, and we are dealing with a vulnerable group who, due to their vulnerability, are dependent on others, which can lead to abuse,” she said. The veteran Jamaican attorney discussed the issue of elder abuse during an interview with Golden Conversations , an online programme for older adults. Every year on June 15, World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is commemorated in Jamaica and globally. The 2024 t...