Pandemic experiences of some senior citizens

Side by side with the helpless young children, the seniors suffer the most difficult impact brought about by COVID. There are a lot of health protocols to follow and numerous prohibitions that have hampered life’s quest for survival, good health, enjoyment, livelihood and avoidance from dreadful diseases.

Although, there are still matured beings who are able to retain their roles as worthy netizens by clinging to their respective functions to reign, maintain and prosper the nation’s welfare on the aspects of economy, business, public service, sports, culture, religion, law, education, entertainment, journalism, etc.

Specifically, if we have to ponder, we still have our elderly heads who call the shots in manning the affairs of our government. Equipped with protocol exemptions and defenses, there are still aged officials who are working in our executive, legislative and judicial departments. Internationally, we have leaders like Pope Francis (84 years old), USA’s Biden (77 years old), Japan’s Suga (72 years old), China’s Jin Ping (67 years old) and Russia’s Putin (67 years old). Our very own President Duterte is 75 years old.

There might be some physical, psychological and technological handicaps, better still, some aging businessmen manage their respective enterprises, priests and pastors to their devotees, farmers, fishermen, laborers and professionals to their respective occupations and clients. And to the academicians and grandparents to their students and grandchildren, respectively.

In terms of survival, retirees from public and private services enjoy a little from their pensions. For those who are self-employed or unemployed, they depend on their little savings and support from generous sponsors, and not to mention the aid from the younger members of the family. However, there are some who still yearn to savor the town or city's assistance because they lack the electoral and residential requirements. Until now, they still wait for the time to come.

The saddest thing here is when the seniors have no one to turn to. Depression and loneliness come in which can be the starting points for physical and mental diseases or early deaths which are complicated with COVID. With weakened immune system plus the negative circumstances, the vigor and enthusiasm to live life to the fullest have gone.

But kudos to the old ladies and gentlemen who strive to leave a good legacy of good personhood and service to others with no stains of material and power greed. They have eluded from situations that can only stir regrets, hatred and injustice. Their stories are worthy of remembering and emulation.

As of the moment, most seniors are caged at home tending to some personal and household routines and apostolic work -- bantay sa apo. And if you ask them their whereabouts, they would readily say: NBI -- Naaras Balay Intawon.

Lito Gador Tampus

Moalboal, Cebu