30 Jul 2017

The national executive committee for Botswana Retired Nurses Society (BORNUS) Francistown branch vice chairperson, Ms Susan Jorosi says the purpose of their organisation is to look into the wellness of people.

Speaking during the BORNUS wellness event at Tatitown kgotla in Francistown recently, Ms Jorosi said the reason they were doing this was to bridge the gap in society by helping and caring for the elderly’s health.

“We want to care for our elder’s health and make sure they also go for check-ups as instructed by doctors and that they also are involved in wellness day,” she said. She further stated that their main objective was to initiate projects that were geared towards improving the quality of life and health of people in the country.

“We have nine branches across the country and that is why we have purposed ourselves to care and improve the lives of our people and to help our society,” said Ms Jorosi.

Progressive physiotherapy clinic director, Ms Matilda Mazwiduma-Lavik noted that it was her second time working with members of BORNUS, which was the reason why she brought visitors from Ohio University.

“We have students who study physiotherapy, speech therapy and audiology from Ohio University who will be dealing with the problems we are encountering,” said Ms Mazwiduma-Lavik.

Physical therapy director, Ohio University, Ms Janiu Howman said they were honoured to be in Botswana, and that they would be able to give ideas that could help people maintain healthy lifestyles.

“We will be helping with ideas of keeping healthy and remaining active and we will be sharing information on health issues,” she said. In an interview, Tatitown resident, Mr John Motshewa said regular check-ups were good because they allowed everyone to know their health status.

He said every person should know their status to avoid sudden deaths. In addition, he noted that some people suffered from incurable diseases that could have been diagnosed early.

He also encouraged Batswana to health advice, saying many people died out of ignorance.

An audiology student from Ohio University, Ms Elizabeth Lauren said the event was fruitful and rewarding, emphasising that it was a life changing experience.

Ms Lauren also said they assisted some elderly people who had hearing problems, trouble with speaking and pains in their joints.

She also advised those with joint pains to keep exercising and maintain a healthy lifestyle. ENDS