Nairobi: Elderly residents from Juja and its surrounding areas have received a big relief after benefiting from a free eye clinic, with many expressing renewed hope that they would regain their sight and independence after years of struggling to see. The medical outreach by Zetech University and the Lions Eye Hospital brought together dozens of elderly men and women who have long suffered from poor eyesight and other vision-related complications. For many, the clinic marked the first time they had received specialized attention from medical experts.
According to Kenya News Agency, some of the elderly, who had become partially or completely blind, termed it a huge relief. Led by Lucy Waithera, 74, who has lived with blindness in one eye for over a year, they said the camp had restored optimism. 'I have been unable to cook, fetch water, or move around safely. My world became dark. Today, I have hope again after doctors said they will perform surgery to restore my sight,' she said.
Many of the elderly narrated painful experiences of neglect, saying their children had migrated to towns in search of job opportunities, leaving them alone in villages with little access to healthcare. 'We feel forgotten. Our children hardly visit, and treatment is too expensive. This camp is a blessing,' said Jane Ndirangu from Makongeni, Thika.
According to Moreen Wanjiru, a representative from Lions Eye Hospital, the most common conditions among the elderly screened included cataracts, uveitis, and diabetes-related eye complications; illnesses that, if untreated, can lead to total blindness. She said the hospital is committed to offering free corrective surgeries and follow-up care to those that they diagnosed with severe cases.
Zetech University Vice Chancellor Prof. Njenga Munene said the initiative aligns with the mission of the newly launched Institute of Ageing Studies, which seeks to improve the wellbeing of senior citizens through healthcare, research, and advocacy. 'We want to ensure that our elderly live with dignity and receive the care they deserve. Eye problems are among the many challenges that the senior citizens face and that's why we organized this medical camp. This clinic is just the beginning,' he said.
The elderly called on more organizations and well-wishers to support such community-based initiatives, noting that ageing should not condemn anyone to a life of suffering or dependency. The partners pledged to make the eye clinics an annual event to help more elderly residents regain their sight and live healthier, more fulfilling lives.