Samabula Golden Age Home operates beyond capacity

The Samabula Golden Age Home is struggling with overcrowding, as more iTaukei elders are being admitted—a trend welfare officials say highlights the erosion of traditional care systems.

Welfare Officer Nereo Kanasalusalu said the facility, designed to accommodate 30 to 35 residents, is currently housing 48.

“Every day, we have people coming to our gates asking to admit their elderly parents. It’s a sad reflection of our society today,” he said.

“It’s a bad sign. It shows our iTaukei cultural system is fading, and the respect and responsibility once held for our elders is disappearing.”

Mr Kanasalusalu added that reintegration efforts continue, with one resident expected to return home to their family soon. He also raised concerns about the condition of the home’s infrastructure.

Questions sent to the Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection remain unanswered.

Minister for iTaukei Affairs Iferemi Vasu said he was troubled by the cultural shift.

“It’s heartbreaking. Some abandon their parents after they’ve succeeded in life. But we must never forget those who carried us to where we are today,” Mr Vasu said.

He urged Fijians to return to core iTaukei values of respect, care, and communal responsibility, stressing that the way society treats its elders reflects its true character.