277 Elderly Undergo Screening for Cataract Surgery

DHARMASRAYA (21 May 2023) - Commemorating the 27th National Elderly Day (HLUN), the Ministry of Social Affairs (MoSA) held a health screening service for people undergoing cataract surgery. A total of 277 elderly prospective cataract surgery patients underwent a screening process at Sungai Dareh Regional Hospital, Dharmasraya Regency, West Sumatra.

The health screening process for the elderly took place on 19, 20, and 22 May 2023, to assess their eligibility for cataract surgery, scheduled to be performed from 27 to 29 May 2023.

The Director of MoSA’s Social Rehabilitation for the Elderly, Supomo, stated that this cataract surgery health service was the result of a collaboration of some parties for the surrounding community.

"Today, as part of the 27th HLUN activities, we are conducting health screening for cataract surgery services, thanks to the collaboration with Yayasan Pundi Amal Peduli Kasih (YPP) SCTV and Indosiar," Supomo explained in Dharmasraya Regency on Saturday (20/5).

On 19 May 2023, 90 elderly individuals participated in the health screening, recommended by health centers such as Sungai Dareh Health Center, Koto Baru Health Center, Sungai Limau Health Center, Silago Health Center, and Gunung Medan Health Center.

Furthermore, on 20 May 2023, 94 elderly people will undergo health screening and on 22 May 2023, 93 elderly people will undergo health screening.

The peak of the 27th HLUN commemoration is scheduled for May 29, 2023, with various activities including Social Health Services: cataract surgery, basic health checks (blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol, uric acid), and blood donation; Fulfillment of Civil Rights: registering ID cards for the elderly, birth certificates, family cards, and marriage; Social Assistance: food assistance for the single elderly, Economic Empowerment Program for the elderly, Basic Food Program, Family Hope Program, Integrated Welfare House, provision of wheelchair assistance, provision of glasses, canes and walkers, provision of clothing, and nutritional assistance.

Supomo expressed the hope that this service would not only reach the elderly but also extend to children facing eye problems.

"With this cataract surgery service, we hope that many residents, including children with eye problems, can participate and improve their health," Supomo added.

Every year, on May 29th, HLUN is commemorated. The HLUN commemoration aims to elevate the elderly's standing as a potential asset to the country rather than a burden. It is intended that HLUN would serve as a reminder that the Indonesian state and society are here to care for the elderly, who are often ignored.

The peak event of HLUN 2023 will be held on May 29, 2023, in Dharmasraya Regency, West Sumatra Province, with the theme "Cared for Elderly, Dignified Indonesia".