General News of Friday, 23 January 2015
Source: Graphic Online
At age 100, Madam Maud Hammond, a former matron of Adisadel College, has a lot of experience to share on her secret to long life. According to the centenarian, hard work, upholding honesty, intelligence and healthy eating, were the best indicators of ‘your chance to live a long life’.
She also said reducing stress and trusting in God were the best ways to live a full and long life.
She, therefore, cautioned the youth to shun laziness and greed for quick money, saying, “If you are in a rush to make quick money, it would bring you danger.”
Madam Hammond, who turned 100 on December 28, 2014, is recognised for spearheading women advocacy groups and women empowerment in the country.
Affectionately called Auntie Maud, the centenarian was crowned Miss Accra in 1934 at the age of 20 and was an active member of the Accra Women’s Association.
Madam Hammond made the statement when the Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Nana Oye Lithur, visited her at her residence in Accra last Wednesday.
The mother of seven, 22 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, who became the chief commissioner for the Ghana Girl Guides Association in 1971, expressed gratitude to the Ministry for its support for the aged.
In her remarks, Nana Oye Lithur urged Ghanaians to recognise and celebrate the lives of the aged for their contribution to nation building.
According to her, the efforts and sacrifices of people who had diligently served the country deserved to be honoured.
“The bravery, resilience, determination and hard work of our once able men and women is worth celebrating upon their retirement,” she stated, adding that the ministry was committed to the protection and welfare of the aged in society.
Nana Oye Lithur said as part of efforts to support the aged in society, her ministry had established an “Ageing Desk” to address concerns of the elderly.
“In addition, the ministry, together with the National Health Insurance Scheme, has registered over 3,650 (aged) persons above 65 years to ensure that they receive affordable health delivery,” she added.