LUCENA CITY - Village officials in this city's Barangay Cotta said they are finding new ways to raise the quality of life of senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs). In an interview on Thursday, village chairwoman Annalou Alcala announced that the barangay council has approved a measure that will match the PHP500 cash gift being given by the city government to seniors and PWDs celebrating their birthdays. Seniors and those who are physically challenged will now be receiving PHP1,000 on their birthdays, she said. Meanwhile, Alcala revealed that a wellness center in the barangay compound built five years ago for the elderly and stroke victims now provides care to more than 30 patients. The barangay chairwoman recalled that the facility only accommodated nine patients when it initially opened. Alcala said patients wanting to avail of the facility's services must be checked by the village partner doctor for appropriate therapy programs. Licensed physical therapists initially trained barangay health assistants (BHA) who, in turn, are carrying out patient's therapy sessions today, she added. Aside from therapy programs and free medicines for the patients, Alcala said part of their barangay budget sustains doctor's fees, allowing them to offer free checkups. Additionally, the camaraderie and socialization among the patients bring positive vibes hasten their recuperation, she explained. "It's particularly gratifying when we see the patients graduating from the program and making remarkable recovery," Alcala said. (PNA)
Source: Philippines News Agency