ABSTRACT

The aging population in Cameroon, like in many developing countries, faces significant challenges due to inadequate social security systems, limited access to healthcare, and lack of formal support for elderly individuals and their caregivers. As the elderly population grows, so does the burden on family caregivers who are often unprepared to handle the physical, emotional, and financial demands of long-term care. This study explores the feasibility of creating a non-profit organization dedicated to providing support to the elderly and their family caregivers in Tubah, a semi-urban area in Cameroon. The non-profit would serve as a hub for services such as elderly care, caregiver education, and community outreach, with the ultimate goal of improving the quality of life for both the elderly and their caregivers.

The study begins by analyzing the demographic trends in Tubah, showing an increasing population of elderly individuals due to extended life expectancy and changing social dynamics. Traditionally, family structures in Cameroon provided informal support for the elderly, but urbanization, migration, and changing economic conditions have eroded these support systems. The burden of care now falls on a shrinking pool of family members, often younger women, who must juggle caregiving responsibilities with their own personal and professional lives.

This preliminary study includes both qualitative and quantitative research methods, including interviews with families, elderly individuals, and local health professionals. Data collection focused on understanding the current challenges faced by the elderly and their caregivers, assessing the availability of existing social services, and determining the level of community interest in a non-profit organization that could address these needs. Results show a significant gap in services tailored to the elderly population, with many individuals relying solely on their families for care, often without any formal training or support for caregivers. Healthcare access is another key issue, with many elderly individuals unable to afford medical care, while caregivers express frustration with the lack of respite care and counseling services.

The proposed non-profit organization aims to provide multi-faceted support, including home-based care for the elderly, workshops on caregiver education, and advocacy for better healthcare policies at the local level. Additionally, the non-profit would foster intergenerational programs that bridge the gap between younger and older generations, encouraging community cohesion and mutual support. Partnerships with local healthcare providers, social services, and international organizations would be explored to ensure the sustainability of the non-profit’s activities.

Challenges in implementing the project include securing funding, building local partnerships, and ensuring long-term sustainability. The study identifies potential funding sources such as international donors, community fundraising, and government support. A phased approach to the establishment of the non-profit is recommended, starting with community education and gradually expanding services based on available resources.

In conclusion, the creation of a non-profit organization for the elderly and their caregivers in Tubah holds promise as a sustainable solution to the growing challenges faced by this vulnerable population. With the right support, such an organization could significantly improve the well-being of the elderly and alleviate the burden on family caregivers, while also fostering stronger community ties.

Keywords: elderly care, caregivers, non-profit organization, Tubah, Cameroon, aging population, community support, healthcare, sustainability.