I WAS ordering take-out food in one of the city’s restaurants inside the mall when a female elderly came in. She was with two young people who were both busy with their cell phones. She seemed to be someone who lives comfortably, maybe not very rich, but leads a comfortable life.
As she was sitting there while her young companions ordered food, I could see that she was lonely and I didn’t think she cared about what was happening around her or that she was inside a bustling coffee shop. And her companions, instead of engaging with her, just left her “alone and lonely” sitting there all by “herself.”
Observing her led my mind to the Php100,000 that the government gives to centenarians. Looking at her frail body and observing her “loneliness,” I’m wondering what Php100,000 can do to make her happy.
Monetary Gifts
In the Philippines, there has been a growing trend of giving significant monetary gifts to centenarians—particularly cash gifts worth Php100,000. These gestures, often celebrated as an acknowledgment of the milestone of living a century, raise an important question – can such cash gifts still make a meaningful impact on their lives, or is it merely an empty gesture, beneficial only to the younger generations who may hold onto the money? Can they still enjoy or utilize that money meaningfully? Or will their children or relatives be the ones who end up with the money, leaving the elderly with little more than a token of appreciation they cannot truly benefit from?
For elderly Filipinos, particularly those who have reached the 100-year mark, the ability to enjoy and utilize large sums of money is often limited. Physical and cognitive declines that come with advanced age make it increasingly difficult to manage finances. Many centenarians live with their children or other relatives, who may help them with daily needs such as healthcare, transportation, or even managing their finances. In some cases, the elderly may not even have the capacity to decide how to spend or save their money.
Moreover, while some elderly individuals may still possess the vitality to enjoy life’s pleasures—like traveling or enjoying a fine meal—the majority of those reaching 100 are likely to be more concerned with comfort, dignity, and health care than with financial enrichment. At this stage of life, the emphasis is on care and quality of life, not material wealth.
Therefore, while Php100,000 may be a significant amount of money to many, for a centenarian, it may be equivalent to an unnecessary surplus, most of which will likely be passed down to their children. These children, often middle-aged adults, may already be financially stable and have their own financial goals, which might render the gift less meaningful to them as well.
The elderly population in the Philippines, like in many parts of the world, faces issues such as insufficient healthcare, isolation, and the loss of personal autonomy. Financial gifts cannot solve these fundamental challenges. Instead of simply transferring cash, a more effective solution might lie in creative, sustainable ways to enhance the lives of the elderly—ways that enrich their day-to-day existence and help them live with dignity and purpose.
Rather than just writing checks, both the government and the private sector should focus on developing programs and initiatives that provide practical support to elderly Filipinos.
Here are some ideas to consider:
Health and Well-Being Programs
Given the health challenges that elderly people face, investing in programs that provide accessible, high-quality healthcare would have far more impact than a one-time cash gift. The government could ensure that centenarians receive free or subsidized medical checkups, vaccinations, and healthcare consultations, particularly for chronic conditions that require long-term care.
Community Engagement and Social Support
Social isolation is a significant concern among the elderly, particularly those who have outlived their peers or who live alone. Programs that promote social engagement—such as community centers where the elderly can participate in activities, meet peers, and receive emotional support—can make a meaningful difference in their quality of life. Ensuring that elderly citizens are active members of their communities can combat loneliness and contribute to their mental and emotional well-being.
Accessible Transportation
Many elderly people struggle with mobility issues, and the ability to travel freely can greatly enhance their lives. Subsidized transportation services for the elderly would not only allow them to attend social events or visit friends and family, but would also provide easier access to healthcare appointments and essential services.
Home Assistance Programs
For elderly individuals who prefer to stay in their homes, the government could implement or expand home assistance programs. These could include services such as home health care, nursing visits, or home modifications to ensure safety and comfort for seniors living independently or with minimal assistance.
Encouraging Intergenerational Support
While it’s important to care for the elderly, it’s equally important to foster connections between generations. By creating opportunities for younger people to interact with and learn from their older counterparts, we can build a more inclusive society that values the wisdom and contributions of all its members. Intergenerational programs could range from mentorship initiatives to volunteering opportunities that benefit both the elderly and younger generations.
Creating a Legacy of Care
Instead of treating them as a one-time celebratory event, we must focus on building sustainable systems that provide practical, long-term support. What matters most for these 100-year-olds is not the sum of money in their bank account, but the quality of their life, their health, and the meaningful relationships they maintain with their families and communities.
Instead of giving money to elderly individuals who may not fully benefit from it, let’s direct our efforts toward ensuring that older people can live their golden years with dignity, respect, and access to the resources they need to thrive.
Through thoughtful policy and creative solutions, we can truly honor our elderly by giving them a life that remains worth living—long after their 100th birthday.
