EDITORIAL

Barbados is known for several unique things. It is the most easterly of the Caribbean islands, a most fortunate geographical position when it comes to tropical storms. It also boasts as the country that invented rum. More importantly, however, Barbados has a large number of persons who regularly make the centenarian list and currently ranks as the second nation in the world with the highest number of centenarians per capita. 

 

Whether it is the refreshing environment that George Washington and his brother took advantage of or a natural element embedded in the genes, every year the island records dozens of new members joining the hundred-year-club milestone. These noteworthy occasions are deservedly celebrated through visits from the Governor-General and recorded on history’s page via the media. In addition, as a special promotion in our Jubilee year, the Barbados Postal Service recently paid tribute to their extraordinary longevity by issuing a commemorative release – Centenarians of Barbados – that details a set of 20 stamps on the subject. 

 

There is much we can learn from those elderly persons who have survived through many hardships and have achieved significant wisdom. For example, many of our local honourees have credited their longevity to a strong faith in God and remaining as active as possible. James Sisnett, who died at 113 and at one point was the second oldest man in the world (and oldest in the Western Hemisphere), maintained an active lifestyle well into his 90s. In similar fashion, some also credit a love for hard work and passion for the community around them. Errie Younge, one of the island’s newest centenarians, noted that – even at her age – she works to assist others who are not so fortunate.

 

For their invaluable contributions in building Barbados and its people, they must be protected. It is disturbing that elder abuse and exploitation still occurs, an example of which was highly visible in a video making the rounds on social network sites a few months ago. We wholeheartedly agree with Senator Reverend Dr. David Durant and other like-minded individuals who have repeatedly called for stronger legislation to protect senior citizens and fight against elder abuse. 

 

We must also seek to adapt positive lifestyles as they have done. In his sermon during the National Independence Service, the Most Reverend Dr. John Holder, Bishop of Barbados and Archbishop of the West Indies, noted that it is important to keep up hope, especially in the face of challenging circumstances, and that this country has much for which to be grateful. In that vein, we must take special care in preserving the country’s health. Non-communicable diseases are a scourge on our health services and remain a pressing problem. When approximately one-third of our children are obese or overweight, then it is clear any resulting medical issues will follow them into adulthood and affect the quality of their lives.  

 

Our elderly are a national treasure and have lived through many personal and national challenges. Regardless of whether they make it to one hundred, they have sacrificed much to leave a platform on which many successes have been built. It would be shameful and disrespectful to them if we falter in our duty to watch over them as best as possible, or fail to continue their rich legacy.