Insurance planned for over 70s

Irangika RANGE

* New health insurance scheme

* Recognition of service to country

The government is planning to introduce a new insurance scheme for Senior Citizens who are above 70 years. Social Services Minister Felix Perera told the Daily News Senior Citizens over 70 years, who are getting a monthly allowance of Rs 1,000 will be entitled to this new insurance scheme. “The new insurance scheme is meant to promote the health, well-being and independence of Senior Citizens in the country,” he said.

The minister was addressing a ceremony organised by the Social Services Ministry to provide a monthly allowance to 1,828 Senior Citizens above

70 years in Divulapitiya recently. "These citizens have worked hard all their lives and contributed to the development of the nation and the community.

Though generally ignored and sometimes shunned by the younger community but there is much to learn from them. Some continue to be productive and work in various capacities, "the minister said. Senior citizens need to be cared for by society and the nation owes them a decent life in their old age. Keeping these sentiments, the government hopes to introduce several benefits through its various schemes for senior citizens. Among such schemes is a health insurance policy.

"Providing health care facilities will make elders happy, healthy and more independent in their families," the minister said. "Our mission is to ensure that the majority of the older generation continues to live in good health without being a burden to others," he added.