Employees at the Saturnino Lora Provincial Hospital in Santiago de Cuba are seeking help to locate the relatives of an elderly man who has been left alone in the Emergency Room after reportedly going several days without food.
Journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada shared on his Facebook channels that a woman reached out to him to help find any family members or acquaintances of the patient, identified as Pedro Molina Mustelier.
"This elderly man is alone in the Provincial Hospital's Emergency Room and has no companion. He says he has no family," the woman explained.
The man mentioned that he lives in René Ramos, a neighborhood very close to the hospital. When he arrived at the Emergency Room, he was extremely weakened and stated that he "hasn't eaten for days." He was immediately admitted and given an IV, the woman reported.
The journalist is calling on neighbors to contact any acquaintances who might be able to visit the medical center. The crisis in Cuba has particularly impacted the elderly, many of whom have been left without family on the island due to the ongoing migration exodus. Numerous senior citizens have collapsed on the streets of the island from hunger and malnutrition, with some going days without food.
Last year, an elderly man fainted from hunger on Aguilera Street in Holguín and later died from a head injury sustained during the fall. Another emaciated elderly Cuban collapsed on the streets of Old Havana, requiring assistance from passersby who provided him with some food and drink.
In April, yet another elderly man fainted from hunger in a street in the Cruces municipality, Cienfuegos. "Hunger, I'm just hungry," he was heard saying as he was helped.
Elderly Crisis in Cuba: FAQs
In light of the ongoing crisis affecting the elderly population in Cuba, here are some frequently asked questions and their answers to provide more context and understanding of the situation.
Why are so many elderly people in Cuba left without family support?
Due to the ongoing migration exodus, many younger family members have left the island in search of better opportunities, leaving the elderly without familial support.
What are the main health issues faced by elderly Cubans?
Elderly Cubans often suffer from malnutrition and hunger, leading to fainting spells and other health complications. The lack of adequate medical care exacerbates these issues.
How can people help elderly individuals in Cuba?
People can help by providing food, medical supplies, and companionship to elderly individuals. Additionally, contacting local organizations and hospitals to offer support can make a significant difference.