Milka is staying fit and active
Older People’s Associations (OPAs) are community groups that provide a wide range of activities and benefits for older people around the world. They serve as a platform for older people to exercise their voice, speak out on behalf of their communities, and to raise awareness of, and claim, their rights. OPAs are run by older people, for older people, which means they decide what they want to do with and for their communities.
“I see a big difference in my life because if not for the help I got, I would still be at home and I would be blind forever.”
"My name is Milka, I’m 85 years old and I live in Kenya. I joined KARIKA [OPA] in 2012 to meet with my fellow age mates and I am happy. We gather here and talk, sharing ideas during our teenage years and how we lived during those times. Our bodies and brains get exercise, and we feel great at the end of it all. Thereafter, it is much easier to go home, relax and go to sleep.”
OPAs as a sanctuary
KARIKA brings older people together, helping them to feel less lonely and isolated. Like all Age International funded OPAs, it is a safe space where older people can receive a hot meal as well as practical and psychological support and other medical interventions. The OPA is funded by generous supporters like you.
A place to heal
“I once got sick, had a problem with my leg, and went to the hospital because I couldn't walk due to my spinal cord injury. But I took physiotherapy sessions [organised by KARIKA] and now I can walk with a stick more easily and for longer distances than before.”
“KARIKA also planned for a medical eye check-up for all of us. I had an operation to extract cataracts and I can now see clearly. The sunglasses I was given after the operation protect my eyes from excess sunlight.”
“I see a big difference in my life because if not for the help I got at KARIKA, I would be still at home and I would be blind forever. It has helped me because if it were not for the medical check-up and treatment we get through KARIKA programmes, where would I have gone for help?”
Milka with her sunglasses after her cataract operation.
Globally, there are more than one million Older Person’s Associations, all supporting older people like Milka to navigate the challenges and celebrate the joys of ageing together. Thanks to the support of the Grandparents United community and other donors, more older people like Milka, can actively participate in their communities, through their local OPA.