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Sunday, May 29, 2011

WORLD ELDER ABUSE AWARENESS DAY (WEAAD) 15th June 2011 : India Programme




May 20th to June 20th 2011

On the occasion of 6th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) 15th June 2011 Silver Inning Foundation(SIF) a NGO working with senior citizens and their family members in association with INPEA (International Network for Prevention of Elder Abuse) Indian Chapter through Development, Welfare and Research Foundation (DWARF) and 'Little Things Matter Initiatives' (LTMI), SSS Global, FESCOM (Mumbai), ‘1298’ Senior Citizens Helpline, Mumbai, AISCCON , Harmony for Silvers Foundation & ALFRESCO FC will be commemorating Elder Abuse Awareness Day from on May 20th to June 20th 2011 . SIF through its networking and social media has taken the initiative to host various events pan India to create awareness and sensitize the Government and the Civil Society to eliminate/prevent elder abuse at both micro and macro level.

World over 15th June is marked as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day by INPEA.INPEA is an organization, founded in 1997, which is dedicated to the global dissemination of information as part of its commitment to the world-wide prevention of the abuse of older people. The United Nations International Plan of Action adopted by all countries in Madrid, April 2002, clearly recognizes the importance of addressing and preventing abuse and neglect of older adults and puts it in the framework of the Universal Human Rights. INPEA is dedicated to supporting the plan of action.

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day month long programme aims to increase society's ability, through various programmes, to recognize and respond to the mistreatment of older people in whatever setting it occurs, so that the latter years of life will be free from abuse, neglect and exploitation.

Objective:
• To create awareness in elderly people themselves regarding what comes under elder abuse.
• To sensitize young people regarding elder abuse and to bridge the intergenerational gap between elderly and young people.
• To create awareness in media and civil society at large regarding elder abuse.


World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, Month long Tentative Programme: from May 20th to June 20th 2011
http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif
1. Host Essay Competitionhttp://silverinnings.blogspot.com/2011/05/4th-national-annual-essay-competition.html . Essay of maximum 2000 words on the following topics are invited from May 20th to June 20th 2011:
a) For all age groups:
Can Elder abuse be prevented, if not eliminated? If yes how? If no why not?

b) For School Students - Class 5th to class 10th:
Grandparents are the best Friends

c) For Students - 1st year College to Post Graduation:
Youth are important link towards Elderly friendly society http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif

BlogAdda.com is Exclusive Blogging Partners for the event 4th National Annual Essay Competition 2011 for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) 2011



2. Online Elder Abuse Survey 2011: Elder Abuse, Magnitude & Intervention – from May 20th to June 20th 2011: http://silverinnings.blogspot.com/2011/05/online-elder-abuse-survey-2011-elder.html

3. 4th June Talk on ‘Women Empowerment’ by Adv Nausheen of Majlis at Ladies club annual get together at Sangeeta Complex ,Bhayandar west , Near Mumbai

4. 5th June ‘Elder Abuse’ Sensitization talk at FESCOM Capacity Building programme for office bearers of FESCOM Senior Citizens State Federation at Harmony Center ,Mumbai

5. 15th June “Foot D Ball to Stop Elder Abuse” friendly football match between Youth and Staff and Elder Resident of Rajpuria Vaprashtashram(Old Age Home) Uttan , Bhayandar west , near Mumbai in association with ALFRESCO FC, Mumbai MDFA 3rd Division Team (2010). We at Silver Inning Foundation (SIF) are promoting the cause of Elderly through unique and well tried ‘Sport for Development’ (S4D) concept through our Pilot project “Foot D Ball to Stop Elder Abuse “.This intergeneration activity with S4D concept through Football is tried for first ever time in this part of the world (might bhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gife first time in world) for promoting Elder Cause and to create awareness about Elder Abuse in civil society. Youth will Tie ‘Purple Security Band’ to Elders : http://silverinnings.blogspot.com/2011/05/young-chagemakers-to-use-football-as.html

6. 17th June ‘Intergenerational Programme’ in association with Apne Aap Women’s Collective - AAWC (NGO working for Children’s of marginalized mothers) & Harmony for Silvers Foundation at Harmony Day Center ,Mumbai. Children’s will Tie ‘Purple Security Band’ to Elders

7. 20th June ‘Talk on Dementia & Alzheimer’s and Abuse’ at Senior Citizens Association of Shri Krishna Nagar, Borivali East ,Mumbai . SIF staff will Tie ‘Purple Security Band’ to Elders

8. Senior Citizens group at Visakhapatnam will be conducting an awareness meeting on "Elders Abuse" on 15th. June 2011, jointly by [1] Vintage Visakha a Forum for Elderly and Senior Citizens ND [2] Sneha Sandhya (Welfare Society for Senior Citizens)

9. SSS Global in association with Senior Citizens groups, Hyderabad plan to conduct Talk on Elder Abuse based on their personal experience / knowledge.

10. Bulk SMS will be send to more than 10,000 people

11. Bulk Email will be send to more than 25,000 people

12. Creation of Open Group on Face Book ‘World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) 15th June’

13. Month long activity on Social Media sites

14. ‘Friendly Football Matches’ at other places including schools


Together, we have the power to prevent elder abuse




My World, Your World, Our World, Free of Elder Abuse



This World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) 2011 program is organized by Silver Inning Foundation and supported by INPEA (International Network for Prevention of Elder Abuse) Indian Chapter throuhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifgh Development, Welfare and Research Foundation (DWARF) and 'Little Things Matter Initiatives' (LTMI), SSS Global; FESCOM (Mumbai), 1298 Senior Citizens Helpline, Mumbai; AISCCON ,iCONGO ; Harmony for Silvers Foundation & Alfresco FC –Mumbai.



Contact for more info: silverinnings@gmail.com

Friday, May 27, 2011

Young Chagemakers to use Football as a catalyst for Elder Friendly World: WEAAD 2011



During this World Elder Abuse Awareness Day 15th June 2011 programme, we at Silver Inning Foundation (SIF) are promoting the cause of Elderly through unique and well tried ‘Sport for Development’ (S4D) concept. This year we are launching our Pilot project “Foot D Ball to Stop Elder Abuse”in association with ALFRESCO FC, Mumbai MDFA 3rd Division Team (2010).

Fusion and Synergy between Youth & Elders will help us to achieve our vision of creating elder friendly world where ageing becomes a positive and rewarding experience. This intergeneration activity with S4D concept through Football is tried for first ever time in this part of the world ( might be first time in world)for promoting Elder Cause and to create awareness about Elder Abuse in civil society.

Sports programme promotes social inclusive and serve as effective tool for social mobilization. Access to and participation in sport is a human right and essential for individuals of all ages to lead healthy and fulfilling lives.

Sport and physical activity are essential for improving health and well being. Appropriate forms of sport and physical activity can play a significant role to prevent as well as help cure many of the world's leading noncommunicable diseases. Evidence shows that regular participation in physical activity programmes provides all people with a wide range of physical, social and mental health benefits. Such active participation also interacts positively with strategies to improve diet, discourage the use of tobacco, alcohol and drugs and enhance functional capacity. Consequently, physical activity is an effective method of disease prevention for the individual and, for nations, a cost-effective way to improve public health.

Sport, recreation and play are a fun way to learn values and lessons that will last a life time. They promote friendship and fair play. They teach team work, discipline, respect, and the coping skills necessary to ensure that children develop into caring individuals. They help prepare young people to meet the challenges they will face and to take leadership roles within their communities. Sport and recreation programs are creating environments that are safe and promote stable relationships between children and adults, and among children themselves. Sport as a development instrument becomes even more interesting if it is durably embedded in the local society.

Sport and play are important to UNICEF because they are vital elements in the health, happiness and well-being of children and young people. Research shows that participation by young people in structured recreation contributes to their physical and psychosocial development and can teach basic values and life skills - hard work, discipline, teamwork, fairness and respect for others - that shape individuals' behaviour and help them to pursue their goals and respond appropriately to events in their own lives and in those of others.

UNICEF's Sport for Development (S4D) work is grounded in its mission to ensure that every child has the right to recreation and play in a safe and healthy environment - a right founded in Article 31 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child - as well as the right to sport, which is specifically contained in other international treaties. It also recognizes sport-based initiatives as a programme strategy to achieve specific development objectives, including, most notably, the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

Football is one of the most patronized sports around the world. All around the globe, organisations driven by local social entrepreneurs, use the power of the beautiful game to positively transform their communities. Development through Football is becoming an important issue within the development cooperation and social work sectors.

Fuelling positive social change through Football has become a fundamental pillar in and carries a significant responsibility for the society as a whole. Due to its values, popularity, universal nature and appeal, football -in all its forms- can be seen as the ideal instrument for achieving social and human development targets and tackling many of the major challenges faced by society today. Football has a positive effect on those who play it, both in terms of health (physical activity) and life skills (the values of team sport).

The success story remarkably have been made in the Development through Football sector since the beginning of the 21st century, while more limited activity on the field can be tracked down already back in the late 1980’s. It is only during the last 5-6 years, however, that more and more social development and donor organisations recognise the positive impact of sports and especially football as a way to foster social and human development. The universal fascination of football thanks to its simple but exciting playing rules, along with its low equipment costs and team-building characteristics, makes this sport a favourite in the Development through Sport field.

A perfect analogy to life ,The principles and values of street- or simply informal football played within Development through Football programmes include fair play, team spirit, tolerance, inclusion, and understanding, both of oneself but also of the others, regardless of their status as opponents or team mates.

The 2010 FIFA World Cup which was staged in Africa for the first time ever has strengthen the connection between football and social development even more and thus offer a great chance to showcase the full potential of football.

"Linking football with development programmes, can help make a difference to the lives of millions of children," said Commissioner for Development and Humanitarian Aid, Louis Michel.

In India organsiation like Dream A Dream has training module “The Dream Way of Working with Children” highlights values like respect for children, progressive ways of getting children to follow instructions, and making learning for children fun, interesting and participatory.

Also Magic Bus India works for change through football ,finds the potential and abilities within each child, empowering them to build strong and aware communities free of religious and caste prejudice and gender divides. It believes in the child’s right to a positive future in which they make their own choices and take responsibility for change.

The SIF pilot project “Foot D Ball to Stop Elder Abuse” recognizes the potential that football and other sports can unleash when systematically included in processes of social change. Football especially has the power to unite people and cultures all over the world. As a team sport it promotes fairness and tolerance, leapfrogs gender boundaries and fosters mutual understanding, thereby contributing to the positive development of personality and character.

With this Pilot project SIF wishes to engage youths, empowering them with skills to positively develop their personality and character, thus increasing opportunities to tackle their life and enhancing a strong civil society. SIF will utilize skill and wisdom of our Elder and use a holistic approach to promote ‘Sports for Development’ through Football.

Vinay Sangwan , the Alfresco FC manager say’s ‘ I have been playing football for last four years just for my passion for the sport and to carry on the work of my father. It’s exciting that we are associated with SIF for this unique programme to support the cause of our Elders. Yes I agree there lack of awareness about Elder Abuse in Indian society and we are happy that through game of football we would bring the issue in mainstream and seek justice for our Elders’.

Sailesh Mishra, Founder President Silver Inning Foundation believes that while sport would not be a cure for all social ills, sport and specially game of football can perfectly be a catalyst for development and the promotion of peace.

Sailesh further say’s added to this is the broad consensus that regular physical activity is essential for the physical, mental, psychological and social development of children and people of all ages. The tool of sport through football will help our youngsters and elders to Age Gracefully and lead to Healthy Ageing.

We call upon members of Civil Society , Youth Clubs , Sports Club , UN Agencies, Educational Institutions , Corporate , Media ,Senior Citizens Organization’s and Senior Citizens to come ahead and support our unique pilot project “Foot D Ball to Stop Elder Abuse” by Participating , Organizing matches , Capacity building training , Train the Trainer , Media promotion and most important by Funding and Sponsoring.
Together, we have the power to prevent elder abuse; let’s make My World, Your World, Our World, Free of Elder Abuse .


This World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) 2011 program is organized by Silver Inning Foundation and supported by INPEA (International Network for Prevention of Elder Abuse) Indian Chapter through Development, Welfare and Research Founhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifdation (DWARF) and 'Little Things http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifMatter Initiatives' (LTMI), SSS Globalhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif; FESCOM (Mumbai), 1298 Senior Citizens Helpline, Mumbai; AISCCON ,iCONGO , Harmony for Silvers Foundation & Alfresco FC –Mumbai.


Contact: silverinnings@gmail.com ; info@silverinnings.com
Website: www.silverinningfoundation.org

Saturday, May 21, 2011

4th National Annual Essay Competition 2011: 6th World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) 2011



On the occasion of 6th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) 15th June 2011 Silver Inning Foundation a NGO working with senior citizens and their family members in association with INPEA (International Network for Prevention of Elder Abuse) Indian Chapter through Development, Welfare and Research Foundation (DWARF) and 'Little Things Matter Initiatives' (LTMI), SSS Global, FESCOM (Mumbai), ‘1298’ Senior Citizens Helpline, Mumbai, AISCCON & Harmony for Silvers Foundation will be commemorating Elder Abuse Awareness Day from on May 20th to June 20th 2011 . It has taken the initiative to create awareness among civil society and government to eliminate elder abuse at both micro and macro level.

SILVER INNING FOUNDATION invites entries for an Essay of maximum 2000 words on the following topics:

1) For all age groups:
Can Elder abuse be prevented, if not eliminated? If yes how? If
no why not?

2) For School Students - Class 5th to class 10th:
Grandparents are the best Friends


3) For Students - 1st year College to Post Graduation :
Youth are important link towards Elderly friendly society


What is Elder Abuse?

Elder abuse is an under-recognized problem with devastating and even life-threatening consequences. Elder abuse is often defined as a single, or repeated act, or lack of appropriate action, occurring within any relationship where there is an ‘expectation of trust’ which causes harm or distress to an older person.

Types of Elder Abuse:
1. Physical abuse
2. Sexual abuse
3. Emotional or psychological abuse
4. Financial or material exploitation
5. Neglect
6. Abandonment
7. Self-neglect


All of us know that we will become old one day and join the ever increasing percentage of senior citizens in the global population. And yet some of us continue to show indifference and disrespect to our elders in our own families and in the society. Each of us might have countless reasons, logics and excuses for this behavior but this could be due to a combination of many problems. Let us try to put a right perspective for these various problems and what we could do to keep our elders happy.
Remember, by helping our elders to stay physically fit and mentally happy. If we fail to give proper care and respect to our elders at home now we may undergo the same treatment from our children later on in our lives.

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, 15th June, program aims to increase society's ability, through various programs to recognize and respond to the mistreatment towards senior citizens in whatever form.

Prize:
The First (1st) best in each category will be given Prize of Rs.500/- INR to each 1st winner and a certificate.

The Three (3) best essays in each category will be given Certificate each and their essay will be published on following Blog: http://peopleforsocialcause.blogspot.com/ ; http://silverinnings.blogspot.com/ and best Ten (10) in each category, with India postal address will be given Participation Certificate.

All the essays will be sole property of Silver Inning Foundation as database/Talk / Reference / Lecture / Book/ Paper presentation for its strategy to Tackle Elder Abuse and issues of Elderly. The verdict of management of Silver Inning Foundation & Silver Innings for selection of best essay will be final.

Silver Inning Foundation consists of a dedicated team of professionals contributing to the cause of the elderly. Silver Inning Foundation conducts seminars, camps, lectures, awareness modules, advocacy, networking, Dementia management services and also has support groups for home based advice. At Silver Innings we are working towards creating Elder Friendly World where Ageing becomes a Positive and Rewarding Experience.

The Last date for submission of Essay is 20th June 2011.


Email your essay with following details
• Name
• Postal Address
• Telephone Number
• Date of Birth
on or before 20th June 2011 to info@silverinnings.com and copy to silverinnings@gmail.com . Only soft copy by email i.e. email entries will only be accepted for competition.

The winners will be announced online by email after 15th July 2011. For further information please call on 09987104233 from Monday to Friday 10am to 5pm.

Terms and Condition:
• Essay should not be more than 2000 words
• Essay should only be in English language
• Essay should be sent by Email (soft copy only)
• No hard copy will be accepted
• It’s open to all Indian Residence / POI / NRI
• People from other country can also participate, but they will not be part of competition and they will be given virtual participation certificate.

This Program is supported by INPEA (International Network for Prevention of Elder Abuse) Indian Chapter through Development, Welfare and Research Foundation (DWARF) and 'Little Things Matter Initiatives' (LTMI), SSS Global; FESCOM (Mumbai), 1298 Senior Citizens Helpline, Mumbai; AISCCON & Harmony for Silvers Foundation.

Together, we all have the power to prevent elder abuse.


My World… Your World…Our World…Free of Elder Abuse


Exclusive Blogging Partners for the event 4th National Annual Essay Competition 2011 for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) 2011: BlogAdda.com

Friday, May 20, 2011

Online Elder Abuse Survey 2011: Elder Abuse, Magnitude & Intervention


On occasion of 6th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) 15th June 2011 Silver Inning Foundation a NGO working with senior citizens and their family members in association with INPEA (International Network for Prevention of Elder Abuse) Indian Chapter through Development, Welfare and Research Foundation (DWARF) and 'Little Things Matter Initiatives' (LTMI); SSS Global; FESCOM (Mumbai) ; 1298 Senior Citizens Helpline, Mumbai; AISCCON & Harmony for Silvers Foundation will be commemorating Elder Abuse Awareness Day from on May 20th to June 20th 2011 . It has taken the initiative to create awareness among civil society and Government to eliminate elder abuse at both micro and macro level.

In this regards we have undertaken this online survey on Elder Abuse to understand the magnitude of Abuse and Intervention for our Elderly.

This survey though focus on Senior Citizens, but people of All Ages from 18year and above can undertake this survey and help us to understand the Elder Abuse in our society. Please note the Survey will be online from 20th May 2011 to 20th June 2011.

Take the Survey and make the difference to life of our Elderly:
http://elderabusemagnitudeandinterventionsurvey2011.questionpro.com/

We would appreciate your feedback in our online survey. All responses will remain confidential and secure. Thank you in advance for your valuable insights. Your input will be used to ensure that we continue to meet your needs. We appreciate your trust and look forward to serving you in the future.

We have contracted with QuestionPro, an independent research firm, to field your confidential survey responses.


Posted on 20th May 2011 by
silverinnings@gmail.com

Support for our Elders “1298” Senior Citizens Referral Helpline Mumbai


India is gradually undergoing a demographic change. With decline in fertility and mortality rates accompanied by an improvement in child survival and increased life expectancy, a significant feature of demographic change is the progressive increase in the number of elderly persons. As on 2010 an estimated 8% population i.e. 96 million people of the total population of India are Senior Citizens above age group of 60 years, of which over 1.5 million resides in Mumbai. Presently India has the 2nd largest population of Senior Citizens in the globe. According to UN by 2050 the population of 60 plus in India would likely go up to 20%.

The now fading joint family system and the Indian cultural values that preached reverence and service towards the elders had served a protective and secure net for the elderly. The advent of nuclear families and other factors like children migrating to cities or abroad for better career opportunities have brought out a range of issues like insecurity, loneliness and lack of companionship leaving the elders more vulnerable in their twilight years. Coping with old age is becoming increasingly difficult, especially in cities like Mumbai. Sadly young people now see senior citizens as a burden. The respect they once enjoyed in the joint family is slowly disappearing. The changed scenario has given rise to three major needs: social, health and financial security of Elderly.

For the net savvy individuals there are many networking sites and online portals to connect to people across the globe. At the same time, for many senior citizens in the city just a phone call to someone to listen to them when they are in distressed or feeling lonely is sufficient.

Only government servants are entitled to pension. This means that literally 70 per cent of the Indian population gets no pension, not even those who have worked in the corporate sector for 30 to 40 years. Most senior citizens are in unorganized sector and are either on their children’s or dependent on their savings or their provident fund and gratuity, whose value is shrinking by the day.

Elder Abuse / Crimes against senior citizens where they have been specifically targeted due to their helplessness have been on the increase in Mumbai. In most cases, the crime is committed by relatives or their own children. There has been an increase in violence against senior citizens by domestic help also.

To address issues related to senior citizens in Mumbai and to provide them relief, The Nargis Dutt Memorial Charitable Trust through MP Priya Dutt along with Dial ‘1298’ for Ambulance in association with Silver Inning Foundation, Help Age India , Harmony for Silvers Foundation & FESCOM launched a 24 x 7 Senior Citizen’s Referral Helpline.

The launch function was held on 10th May 2010 which was attended by Chief Guest Asha Parikh along with the guest of Honor D. Sivanandan, Ms Priya Dutt, Honorable Member of Parliament and Ms Sweta Mangal , CEO of Dial ‘1298’ for Ambulance service. The ‘1298’ Senior Citizen’s Helpline is working closely with prominent NGOs dealing with elderly citizens to act as a bridge between them. Any senior citizen requiring assistance can dial ‘1298’ from a landline or mobile which will connect them to a counselor who is available 24 x 7 to assist them and resolve their queries.


Nature of calls

Most of the calls are related to Senior Citizens who have been harassed by their family members/ friends. Many cases are specifically related to legal and property maintenances.The above Graph shows the call trends.



Number of referral NGO’s
Our calls are referred to following NGO’s:
1. Help Age India
2. Silver Inning Foundation
3. ‘1090’ Police Helpline
4. Dignity Foundation
5. AISCON : All India Senior Citizens Confederation
6. FESCOM: The Federation of Senior Citizens Organizations of Maharashtra
7. Harmony
8. Majlis
9. Lawyers Collective
10. Jeevan Dai Community Centre
11. Old Age Homes
12. Anand Rehabilitation Centre
13. BMC(Municipal corporation) Helpline
14. Moneylife Foundation
15. Sevasadan
16. Special Cell for Women and children



Case Studies:

Deserted Senior Citizen rescued
One unknown lady from Bandra called at 1298 and share that she had seen one senior citizen staying on road since last 4 day. When that lady called it was raining heavily in Mumbai. 1298 Counsellor understood the problem and transfered the call to 1090 Police Helpline, immediately 1090 Police van arrived within 15 minutes at the location and took that lady to the Hospital and saved her life. The unknown lady who called for help called us again to convey her gratitude.

Home for Aged
A senior citizen called at 1298 Senior Citizen’s Helpline to seek information regarding Old Age Homes in Mumbai. He was retired and living on monthly pension. His children were not looking after him so he wanted to stay at an old age home. After understanding the caller’s need, 1298 counselor gave him the various options for old age home to suit his preference. When the counselor made a follow up call she came to know that the person called few Old Age Homes in Mumbai but the matter didn’t materialize due to unavoidable reasons like cost factor and unavailability of rooms. But due to our consistent efforts he got staying arrangements at Manav Seva Sangh Vriddha Ashram in Virar. Our timely intervention was appreciated by the caller.

Legal Help for Senior Citizens

A senior citizen named Geeta (named changed) called up at ‘1298’ Senior Citizen’s Helpline to discuss her problem related to a legal matter. Geeta stays in Bandra but has an alternate house in her name in Vasai. She wanted to sale her house in Vasai but her brother in-law is troubling and not letting her to do the needful and claiming that the house belongs to him and his family. Our counselor directed Geeta to a private advocate for assistance. Geeta also visited sub-registrar’s office and sought guidance.

Elder Abuse
6 months ago, a 70 years old woman named Dakshaben (name changed) called Dial ‘1298’ Senior Citizens Helpline. Since Dakshaben was residing at Mira Road at that course of time we referred her Silver Inning Foundation (SIF) to her. Dakshaben called the in charge at Silver Innings Day Center and visited them and discussed her family problem in detail.
Silver Inning Foundation found that Dakshaben is a widow and retired from Indian Navy. She has two sons, Dakshaben stays with her younger son and her elder son stays in Borivali. She had no financial problem as she gets monthly pension. Her problem lies in the relationship with her younger son’s family which has been staying with her since five years (her husband’s death). Dakshaben complained of the neglect and mental torture by her son and daughter in law. The initial help from NGOs, Mahila Samiti and local police didn’t lead to any success as the problems kept piling. Another problem was that Dakshaben was not very socially active, her day passed by being home most of the time. It was noticed that the problem of conflict between the family members was mostly in the evening and early morning when her son and his wife were at home after work. The staff tried to make peace with the family but Dakshben wanted the legal action. The staff explained her about the lengthy and costly judicial system. She was also told that as Maintenance of Senior Citizens and Parents Act is not in place in Maharashtra there was less chance of getting justice immediately. But she insisted to file a police complain so the staff arranged a meeting with Sr. Police Inspector. On the advice of police officer she filed a complaint which she withdrew in a day as she did not want her son and his family to be behind the bars. Under such a tricky situation Silver Inning's staff designed a plan to make Dakshaben active and involve her with Silver Inning’s weekly program. She was also encouraged to spend time with her friends and meditate. Within a month and after many sessions of counseling Dakshaben started attending and participating in weekly programs. Along with this she started attending Vipasana sessions at Igatpuri. She was actively involved in the awareness skit at ‘UMANG’ talent show of Elderly by Silver Innings. She was one of the star performers of the ‘UMANG’ 2010. Dakshaben is spending her idle time more productively and pays less attention to family problems. The smile on her face motivates us to reach out to more senior citizens.

Distress Call
The Project Coordinator received a call from an unknown person who wanted to help an elderly couple Asha and Gopal (named changed) seeking help to rehabilitate them. Gopal who has not been keeping well off lately with one leg amputated and was on liquid diet. Since they didn’t have any children or relatives to take care of Gopal, the neighbors decided to rehabilitate Asha’s husband to an old age home where his health could be taken care off. Our coordinator contacted Jivan Adhar Seva Sanstha (working for homeless people) who agreed to put Gopal to OAH. When the staff came to pick up Gopal, he refused to leave as he didn’t want to leave his wife alone. After lot of pursual it was decided that a person from OAH will come daily to take care of Gopal. After a week we got to know that Gopal passed away at his home. Asha called 1298 to express the gratitude for our help and understanding late Gopal’s wish.

Professional Care Taker

Sometime back ‘1298’ Senior Citizen’s Helpline received a call from a man who wanted to seek guidance for his friend (Ashok) who wasn’t in good shape. Ashok (named changed) of 75 years old was unable to do any work as his physical health didn’t allow much at the same time his family also couldn’t do much to help him because of their own work. Ashok wanted to seek details of bureaus in Mumbai. Our counselor not only helped Ashok in understanding his case but also connected him with 2-3 bureaus in nearby locality. In Ashok is now happy and relieved as he got help from Bina Nursing Home.


About Nargis Dutt Memorial Charitable Trust (NDMCT):

The Nargis Dutt Memorial Charitable Trust (NDMCT) was founded by the (Late) Padmashri Sunil Dutt in memory of his wife (Late) Smt. Nargis Dutt, with a prime objective of funding and helping patients suffering from cancer for whom good and timely medical treatment was a distant dream.Mr. Sunil Dutt worked tirelessly and selflessly to ensure that the Foundation undertook various fund raising drives, the proceeds of which were used to buy life saving diagnostic medical equipment, medicines, transfer of Technology and various other materials which were sent to specialized cancer hospitals across India for the benefit of patients being treated there. In the area of health- care NDMCT arranges medical camps and provides medical aid to the poor and needy. For the victims of Bihar Flood (in 2008) NDMCT organized a month long medical camp which treated nearly 30,000 families. NDMCT’s recent activity has been the “Platelet Donation Drive “at Tata Memorial Hospital. NDMCT has now diversified to the field of education as well, wherein we provide vocational training (like computer courses, adult literacy classes) and sponsorship fees to the students who are eager to study and learn. NDMCT has also partnered with FLY – Future Lies in iur Youth to prevent suicides among the student community.


About Dial 1298 for Ambulance:-
Ziqitza Health Care Limited (ZHL) operates the Emergency Medical Response (Ambulance) Services : “Dial 1298 for Ambulance”: This model works on principle of cross subsidy wherein the Ambulances are owned by the ZHL and are made self sustainable by charging the end user a charge which differ basis on the choice of the destination Dial 1298 for Ambulance, is an initiative started by a group of young professionals with a high degree of social and public commitment with the primary objective of rolling out a nationwide network of Life Support Ambulance Service accessible to anyone, anytime and anywhere through an easy to remember four digit telephone number. The project has been setup in association with Lohttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifndon Ambulance Service, a UK Government Agency, which has provided the processes, systems, protocols, training and project implementation assistance to 1298. “Dial 1298 for Ambulance” is an initiative to provide a network of Fully Equipped Advanced and Basic Life Support Ambulances 24 hours x 7 days a week.
For more information visit www.zhl.org.in


About our Associates

About Silver Inning Foundation
Silver Inning Foundation is registered NGO dedicated for the cause of Senior Citizens. It is part of social enterprise Silver Innings which hosts one of the most comprehensive and dedicated website for elderly &their family www.silverinnigs.com . Silver Innings is working towards creating Elder Friendly World where Ageing becomes a Positive and Rewarding Experience.

About Help Age India
HelpAge India is a national level secular, non-political, non-profit and non-government organization working for the cause and care of disadvantaged older persons. We endeavor to improve their quality of life and have been doing so for the last 31 years. The cause of the elderly needs attention because we are a society in transition with changing values, which has led to the breakdown of the joint family, resulting in lack of security for the elderly. We voice the needs of India’s 90 million (current estimate)“grey” population, and directly impact the lives of lakhs of elders through our services every year. Website: http://www.helpageindia.org/

About FESCOM
The Federation of Senior Citizens Organizations' of Maharashtra ,Unifying and strengthening the comprehensive welfare activities of senior citizen and their organizations under one banner and leadership, and utilizing their precious knowledge, wide experience, wisdom, energy and skill for welfare of the society in general and Senior Citizen in particular. Website: http://www.fescom-for-sr-citizens.org.in/

About The Harmony for Silvers Foundation:
The Harmony for Silvers Foundation is a non-government organization working to improve quality of life for everyone as they age. Harmony for Silvers Foundahttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.giftion is a social initiative espouses the cause of promoting the interests of senior citizens in the country. The initiative has a three-tiered approach. We have set up our first Harmony Interactive Centre for Silvers Citizens in Girgaum, Thakurdwar. In addition we also run a magazine Harmony- Celebrate Age and a website-portal for Silver Citizens .Website: www.harmonyindia.org


For more info you can contact us at 1298helplinemumbai@gmail.com ; silverinnings@gmail.com

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day 2010 Report: Silver Inning Foundation


On the occasion of 5th Global World Elder Abuse Awareness Day 15th June 2010 , Silver Inning Foundation (SIF), A Dedicated organization for senior citizens and their family members commemorated World Elder Abuse Awareness Day from 21st May to 25th June 2010. It has taken the initiative to host various events to create awareness and sensitize the Government and the Civil Society to eliminate elder abuse at both micro and macro level. It also did networking with organizations working with elderly in Mumbai and all over India.

World over 15th June is marked as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day by INPEA.INPEA is an organization, founded in 1997, which is dedicated to the global dissemination of information as part of its commitment to the world-wide prevention of the abuse of older people. The United Nations International Plan of Action adopted by all countries in Madrid, April 2002, clearly recognizes the importance of addressing and preventing abuse and neglect of older adults and puts it in the framework of the Universal Human Rights. INPEA is dedicated to supporting the plan of action. World Elder Abuse Awareness Week programme aims to increase society's ability, through various programmes, to recognise and respond to the mistreatment of older people in whatever setting it occurs, so that the latter years of life will be free from abuse, neglect and exploitation.

Objective:

• To create awareness in elderly people themselves regarding what comes under elder abuse.
• To sensitize young people regarding elder abuse and to bridge the intergenerational gap between elderly and young people.
• To create awareness in media and society at large regarding elder abuse.


World Elder Abuse Awareness Day 2010, Month long Programme Detail:

I. 3rd Annual Essay Competition 2010 on Elder Abuse (WEAAD) 2010 : http://silverinnings.blogspot.com/2010/05/3rd-annual-essay-competition-2010.html
Following were Terms and Condition:
• Essay should not be less than 2000 words
• Essay should only be in English language
• Essay should be sent by Email only (soft copy only)
• No hard copy will be accepted
• It’s open to all Indian Residence / POI / NRI
• People from other country can also participate, but they will not be part of competition.

Essay of maximum 2000 words were invited in following category and topics:

1) For all age group:
‘Elders Abuse - The Change Has to Start at Our Home’
2) For School Students - Class 5th to class 10th:
“My Grandparents - Our Golden Treasures”
3) For Students - 1st year College to Post graduation :
'No Excuse for Elder Abuse - Signs and Solutions'

Winners were announced on 16th July 2010: http://silverinnings.blogspot.com/2010/07/results-announced-for-3rd-annual-essay.html

1) For all age group: ‘Elders Abuse - The Change Has to Start at Our Home’ :
1st Best : Vasanthi Sankaranarayanan – Rs.500/- and Certificate
2nd Best : Dr Vineeth S - Participation Certificate
3rd Best : M. A. PUROHIT - Participation Certificate 1st Consolation: Pradnya Surve - Participation Certificate
2nd Consolation: Arundathi Kaikini - Participation Certificate

2) For School Students - Class 5th to class 10th: “My Grandparents - Our Golden Treasures” :
1st Best: Manav Varma , 12 yrs - Rs.500/- and Certificate

3) For Students - 1st year College to Post graduation :'No Excuse for Elder Abuse - Signs and Solutions':
1st Best: Vishakha Gupta – 19 yrs , 2nd graduate student - Rs.500/- and Certificate
2nd Best : Achala Gupta , MSW - Participation Certificate
3rd Best : Yash Bharadwaj ,2nd Yr Law Student - Participation Certificate

Participation Certificate will be also given to:
1. Dr Vineeth S
2. M. A. PUROHIT
3. Pradnya Surve
4. Arundathi Kaikini
5. Achala Gupta
6. Yash Bharadwaj
7. Vanita Kumta
8. Mrs.Prerana D.Desai
9. Shinsy P S
10. Resy Antony



II. WEAAD 2010 Bangalore School Report
JNANAJYOTHI U3A BENGALURU, KARNATAKA in association with Silver inning Foundation organized Debate on Elder Abuse the occasion of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day 2010.

" Law can definitely curb abuse of elders in the family. The enactment of Maintenance of Parents and Senior Citizens Welfare act gives adequate teeth . Recent incidents indicate that justice may be delayed but can never be denied," argued a group of teenagers. Another group vehemently opposed stating that a number of law exists on paper only and anyway parents rarely go to court to get redress and they would rather prefer to suffer in India. The statements were a topic of debate organized for High School students celebrating "World Elder Abuse Awareness Day 2010" at their monthly meet by Jnanajyothi U3A.

First three prize winners Kirthana ( JSS Public School ), Rashmi K. Swamy ( Ahalya Bai ), and Roopashree (Prarthana ) were awarded cash vouchers, mementos and appreciation certificates couriered by Silver Inning Foundation, Mumbai appreciating efforts of sister organisation. Madhuranathan's Rolling Shield was lifted by JSS Public School. N.B.Jayapraksh Dignity
Foundation's Bengaluru Chapter Director, Rekha Murthy, Officer-in-Charge of Bangalore Unit of HelpAge India and V.R. Kulkarni, Secretary General of elder forum Swasahaya were the members of jury.

At the closing ceremony, stationery kits were distributed to children of domestic service providers under VIDYAKIRAN scheme, a Capacity Building project of Senior Citizens. The event was organized by Mr. M.R.Rangaswamy , President , JNANAJYOTHI U3A, BENGALURU, KARNATAKA, India


III. ICT (Information, Communication & Technology) Platform
Bulk SMS
To spread the awareness to common person with regards to Elder Abuse bulk sms were sent to mobile via internet. Silver Inning Foundation sent 3000 SMS on 15th June 2010 Quoting: Today is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. Say NO to Elder Abuse. Love, Care & Respect Elders. Dial Elder Helpline 1298 or 1090 in Mumbai. Email: info@silverinnings.com


Email
Silver Inning Foundation also sent Bulk Emails to 5000 people with regards to Elder Abuse Awareness.

IV. Social Media
Silver Inning Foundation created awareness by spreading the message through various Social Media tool including: Facebook ,Twitter , Blog , Yahoo group etc.. Following kind of posters were posted on different forum.


V. Print Media
Silver Inning Foundation also created awareness by spreading the message through various Print Media including local language news paper.


VI. Talk/Event
1. 6th June 2010 Interactive AV Talk on Understanding Dementia and Abuse at Home at Senior Citizens Association, Andheri East , Mumbai . 75 Senior Citizens participated.
2. 15th June Silent Walk at Joggers Park , Mira Road , around 105 people participated
3. 20th June Talk on Elder Abuse at Cosmopolitan School , 60 Senior Citizens attended

This Programme was supported by INPEA (International Network for Prevention of Elder Abuse) Indian Chapter through Development, Welfare and Research Foundation (DWARF) and 'Little Things Matter Initiatives' (LTMI).


Together, we all have the power to prevent elder abuse

Facility & Concession for Senior Citizens 2011

CONCESSIONS AND FACILITIES GIVEN TO SENIOR CITIZENS :Updated With Reference to Mumbai & Maharashtra as on April 2011.


1. The Government of India had declared the National Policy on Older Persons as early as 1999 covering all aspects required to be taken into account for real welfare of Older Persons. It was really a very comprehensive document leaving not a single matter. It covered all the following major aspects in detail in favour of Older Persons:-
i) Financial Security.
ii) Health Care & Nutrition.
iii) Shelter.
iv) Education.
v) Welfare.
vi) Protection of Life & Property.

2. The Policy declared the Older Persons as respected Citizens requiring strengthening of their legitimate place in the Society and to take all actions to help them to live their last phase of life with Purpose, Dignity and Peace. It recognized the Older Persons as a Resource of the Country. It sought the cooperation of all government & non-governmental Organizations including the most powerful Media-our Fourth Estate. Health Care was given higher priority. Public Hospitals were asked to provide separate doctors/counters for Senior Citizens to avoid long waits. Group Housing for Senior Citizens, keeping in view their life styles & common facilities necessary, loans at reasonable rates etc were provided. Provision of welfare services including Old Age Homes on priority basis were laid down. Protection of life & property was also given priority. It encouraged the children to co-reside with parents by giving various incentives to such children. It recognized the NGOs as a very special & important Institutional Mechanism to provide User-friendly affordable Services to Senior Citizens. Trade Unions, Employers` Organizations & Professional bodies were also requested to provide Services to Senior Citizens. Media was expected to highlight the changing situation of Senior Citizens and identify emerging issues and areas of action.

3. In view of changing needs of Senior Citizens over the past decade, Government decided to review this Policy and got it reviewed by a Review Committee, which has submitted Revised National Policy for Senior Citizens,2011 (NPSC, 2011) to Minister of Social Justice & Empowerment on 31-3-11.


The following concessions/facilities are available to Senior Citizens at present:-
a) Poor Senior Citizens living below Poverty Line are given the following help:

4. Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension (IGNOAPS): This Pension is now granted to all Senior Citizens of 60 (orders for 60 under issue by Ministry of Rural Development) & above belonging to a house hold below the poverty line and not limited to destitutes only, as earlier. The contribution of Central Government is Rs 200 per beneficiary p.m. and minimum Rs 200 from the State. Some States are giving more; some less & some nil. Pension is to be credited, where feasible, to a Post Office or Public Sector Bank account of the beneficiary for 3 months with permission to withdraw every month only one month’s pension. Government of Maharashtra has started this scheme with effect from 1-11-07, as notified in their GR dt 5-3-08. The amount of this Pension is notified as Rs 500 p.m. (State Contribution Rs 300) vide their GR dt 30-9-08. The claimant has to be in the list of families under BPL, has to produce proof of age and certificate of residing in Maharashtra for 15 years. If the beneficiary does not withdraw his monthly pension continuously for 3 months, the amount shall be transferred back to the State. Those, who are handicapped and unable to walk, their pension shall be paid by Money Order at State Expense. In all cases, Post Office/Bank Accounts have to be opened. Life Certificate is necessary every year and should be produced between January & March, failing which pension shall be stopped from 1st April. Entitlement of beneficiary shall also be checked up every year. The beneficiary has to apply in the prescribed form in duplicate to the talati/tahsildar of his area and obtain an acknowledgement from him. All enclosures should also be in duplicate.Government of Maharashtra vide their Orders no. VISHYO-2008/pra.ka.78/VISHYO-1 dt 29-6-09 have decided to give Rs 500 p.m. to all senior citizens of 65(now 60 under revision) and above, whose total annual family income is within Rs 21000, if their names are not in the list of BPL Family. This will be paid by Government under their scheme of Shravanbal Seva Rajya Nivruti Yojna and has been put in their Web Site at Sr No.20090629152254001. This was necessitated as it has been made compulsory from 23-9-07 to have name included in list of BPL Family for payment of Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension (which is very difficult due to revised formula!!).

5. Under Sanjay Gandhi Niradhar Anudan Yojna of Maharashtra, niradhar (destitutes) Senior Citizens under 65 and having income below Rs 21000 p.a. are eligible to get Rs 500 p. m. If there is more than one beneficiary, the amount shall be Rs 750 p.m. The beneficiary has to apply in prescribed form with certificates for age, income, residential proof for 15 years, not staying in any Vrudhashram and not getting any monthly allowance through any other scheme etc and for being destitute.

6. National Family Benefit Scheme (NFBS): Under this Scheme, Rs 10000 is given to a BPL family on the death of a primary bread winner between the ages of 18-64 years.

7.Indira Awaas Yojna: This scheme was introduced in 1985-86 and provides houses free of cost to below poverty line BPL S C/S T families (40%), physically & mentally challenged (3%) and non S C /S T BPL house holds staying in rural areas. This is given for new houses as well as conversion of kucha houses in to pucca ones. Cost of the new house is limited to Rs 35000 in plain areas and Rs 38500 in hilly/difficult areas and for conversion Rs 10000 to be financed by Central and State Governments in ratio of 75/25. Similar scheme for providing shelter to Rural BPL families is announced under Pradhan Mantri Gramodaya Yojna also. The purpose is sustainable human development at the village level. This scheme also provides funds for all basic minimum services in the village viz shelter, slum development, roads, bridges & various other schemes.

8.Antyodaya Anna Yojna: This scheme is launched in 2001 and provides 35 kg of food grains per family at highly subsidized rates to 1.5 crore of BPL families. Under National Food for Work (NFFW), rice is given free to BPL in certain backward areas. Under Sampurna Gramin Rozgar Yojna (SGRY), 5kg of rice & Rs 32 cash is given as daily wages per day to BPL Workers for works like construction of roads, infrastructure for education, health improvements, improvement of environment etc.

9.Annapurna Scheme: Under this Scheme launched from 1-4-2001, 10 kg of food grains per month free of cost is provided to BPL persons entitled to IGNOAP but not getting that pension.

10. Swarnajayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojna: Introduced since April, 99, this scheme provides sustainable income to Rural Poor and BPL families. Under this scheme, credit-cum-subsidy is provided for self-employment, skill development etc. It covers all aspects of Self-Employment like organization of self help groups, training, credit technology, infrastructure & marketing. 4-5 Activities are earmarked for a particular Block with approval of Panchayat Samiti. This is financed in ratio of 75/25 by Centre & state.

11. Jawahar Gram Samrudhi Yojna: This is the restructured, streamlined & comprehensive version of erstwhile Jawahar Rozgar Yojna, designed to improve quality of life of rural BPL poor. Under this scheme, a demand driven community village infrastructure including durable assets at the village level are created to enable poor to increase the opportunities for sustained employment and generation of supplementary employments.

12.National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA): The MGNREG Act 2005 provides enhancement of livelihood security, giving atleast 100 days of guaranteed wage employment in every financial year to every household, whose adult members volunteer to do unskilled manual work.

13. Vrudhashrams: Many States have provided free Vrudhashrams for destitute BPL Senior Citizens with free food, sleeping arrangements, free medical facilities etc. For other Senior Citizens also, some Vrudhashrams with facilities of garden, library, TV, Indoor Games etc are provided by some States. In Maharashtra, Matoshri Vrudhashrams are provided and given to private parties/NGOs for management.

14. Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojna: Health Insurance cover is provided under this scheme to BPL workers in unorganized sector and their families (up to 5 members including dependent parents) to the extant of Rs.30000 p.a. The beneficiary has to pay only Rs. 30 p.a. as registration fees. Every State has to implement this scheme in a phased manner and cover all their districts by 2012-13. States have to approve Insurance Company/ies in each district and nominate proper Public/Private Hospitals having sufficient facilities as per guidelines. The insurance company shall enroll the beneficiaries. The scheme shall be financed by Central & State governments, as laid down. Smart cards shall be issued to each beneficiary house holds for cashless service in the nominated hospitals. The beneficiaries shall be eligible for coverage of financial costs of inpatient health care services as well as agreed day care procedures not requiring hospitalization, as decided by State Government with Insurance Company. Some basic exclusions are also kept.

15. Rural Group Life Insurance Scheme-Arogya Raksha Yojna: At the instance of Central Government, LIC has introduced this scheme to provide social security to Rural Families by way of life insurance from 15-8-95 for life cover of Rs 5000 for 2 types of policies. One-general- by full payment of premium by the Applicant and another-subsidized for BPL house holds-one policy for full family. Premium is subsidized by Central & State Governments on 50-50 basis.

16. Private Charitable Hospitals: As per provisions in Sec 41AA in The Bombay Public Trust Act,1950 and similar Acts elsewhere, Charity Commissioner has to instruct & ensure that all private charitable hospitals reserve & earmark 10% of total number of Operational Beds and 10% of the total capacity of patients treated at such hospitals for medical examination & treatment in each Department of the hospital for INDIGENT PATIENTS and are required to be given free treatment on par with paying patients and without any discrimination . They are also required to earmark 10% more in both operation & OPD for those belonging to weaker sections of the society seeking admission or treatment and are required to be treated at concessional rates. Indigent person means, whose total income does not exceed Rs 3600 p.a. and person belonging to weaker section means those, whose income does not exceed Rs 15000 p.a. Almost all Private Hospitals, are run by Charitable Trusts and are required to give this facility.

b) All senior Citizens including BPL are given the following concessions/facilities:-
17. Financial Benefits: a) Income tax rebate up to an income of Rs. 2.5 lakh p.a. from 1-4-11 and this concession shall be available to all senior citizens of 60 years & above, as against 65 at present. A special category of very senior citizens of those above 80 will be given exemption limit of Rs 5 lakh per annum. Under Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension, the eligibility is being reduced to 60 from 65 and those above 80, will be given pension (Central Govt Contribution) of Rs 500 against Rs 200. Interest on daily basis is calculated for Savings Bank Account & rate of interest in Savings Bank is increased. b) Separate wards are provided for filing Returns for Senior Citizens. All claims of Senior Citizens are settled on the spot. If not, refund is required to be given within 3 months of filing the Return. c) Deduction of Medical Insurance premium is increased to Rs.20000. Medical expenditure for some specific diseases is exempted up to Rs.60000. d) The present limit of TDS is increased to Rs.10000 from Rs.5000 from 1-4-07. e) State of Maharashtra exempts Senior Citizens from Professional Tax. f) Senior Citizens are given .25 to 1% more interest by banks on deposits. g) Senior Citizens Scheme: Senior Citizens of 60 and above can deposit Rs. 1000 to Rs. 15 lakh (30 lakh for husband & wife) at the fixed interest rate of 9% in any Post Office or Bank for a period of 5 years, extendable for 3 more years. This can be in joint account or separate account of individual. This account can be closed after 1 year. Income from this account is taxable. h) Reverse Mortgage Scheme: Senior Citizens of 60 and above having their own houses can mortgage their house and get a monthly amount without payment of tax either on cash received from Mortgager or capital gain tax on excess valuation of the flat for day to day expenses and also for health care, home improvements, recreational, religious purposes etc under this scheme without vacating their house subject, of course to valuation of the house, age, interest rates etc. When one dies or house is sold, the debt gets paid off. Spouse can continue to stay till survival. Those in need of monthly money for maintenance can take decision after studying the offer in detail. Now, Central Bank of India & Star Union Dai-ichi Life Insurance Co. Ltd. have launched an Annuity Product called Cent Swabhiman Plus on 10-12-09, a Reverse Mortgage Loan Annuity (RMLA) - a unique & tailor-made product facilitating Senior Citizens to avail regular payments throughout life till both die, as against 15/20 years by other Schemes and that too with substantially higher payments than other Schemes. Rate of interest charged is 9.5 (to be reset every 2 years) in place of 10.25 to 12% in other Schemes. 60 to 75% of property value (to be revalued every 3 years) is considered for giving annuity, which can be taken at 25% as lump sum and remaining or full amount in monthly, quarterly, annually etc, as desired by borrower. The borrower should be of 60 & above and spouse 55 & above. Payment will be made by Insurance Company & not Central Bank. Keeping in view 2 schemes of repurchase of the mortgaged property by heirs, monthly payment per lakh works out to Rs. 396 or Rs 288 p.m. On death of the borrower, little higher payment is made to the surviving spouse. Payments made under this Annuity Scheme are taxable. Many other Banks have also introduced similar schemes.
18. Medical Facilities: Maharashtra Government has directed all Government & Municipal Hospitals and Hospitals attached to Medical & Dental Colleges to provide free investigations & complete treatment to all Senior Citizens. Investigations include all laboratory investigations, X Rays, CT Scan, ECG. Minor & major operations, ICU etc are also included. There will be separate ques for Senior Citizens for case paper, consultations with doctors & medicines. Except, 3 major Hospitals-Nair, KEM & Sion, all Municipal Hospitals have confirmed in writing that they are giving free treatment to all senior Citizens.

19. Action by Ministry Of Health & Family Welfare: i) Ministry has formed a National Programme for Care Of Elderly during 11th Five Year Plan, which comprises- National Programme for Health Care of Elderly (Main Scheme) and development of National Institutes of Ageing with a total allocation of Rs 400 crores during Plan Period. ii) Major activities proposed under the main scheme are as below:
A) Development of 30 bedded health care units for Elderly Persons in 25 Medical Colleges in the Country. B) Development of 10 bedded Geriatric Units at District Hospitals in 100districts of the Country @ 4 districts attached to each Medical College. C) Development of Physiotherapy Unit at all the CHCs falling under 100 Districts. D) Weekly once OPD for Elderly and arrangement for Health Melas at the level of PHCs. E) Involvement of ASHA at Community Level. F) As regards the NIAs, these will be the apex referral institutes of the Country with 200 beds facility. Basic aim of these institutes will be development of specialized manpower, research in gerontology and patient care.
G) Health Ministry has started accreditation of Hospitals and Health Providers to ensure better medical service to Senior Citizens. H) Director General of Health Services has carried out projects on training of health manpower as well as developing training modules on geriatrics for different health functionaries for the purpose of providing training. A survey was conducted to find out the burden of diseases among geriatric population & the Report has been published in 2007.National Programme for Health Care for Elderly, approved by Ministry of Finance in June, 2010 has been notified with operational guidelines on their Web Site. A few meetings of stakeholders have been convened for finalizing the implementation strategy. Funds are released to Regional Medical Centres & States. I) Free of cost health services are already being provided to all Below Poverty Line (BPL) citizens including Senior Citizens. J) The Policy for providing land at subsidized rates for construction of private hospitals & charitable trusts already exists. K) As regards provision of geriatric wards in all the hospitals, article 20 of
`` Maintenance and Welfare of Parents & senior Citizens Act, 2007`` directs the State Governments to provide beds for all senior citizens as far as possible. Under NPHCE, there is provision for developing 30-bedded geriatric wards in 8 Regional Geriatric Centres and 10-bedded wards for Senior Citizens in 100 District Hospitals during 11th Five Year Plan. L) There is a proposal in the NPHCE to provide training to the Community Members in geriatric care by ANM at sub-centre level. Ministry of S.J. & E. is also taking care in respect of the training of geriatric care givers. M) One of the important components of NPHCE is information, communication and education. Strategy will be devised to increase awareness of the community in respect of the role of balanced diet, proper exercise, yoga etc in prevention and control of diseases. Mass media programme will be framed to increase the awareness of the public as well as the medical care givers on the various provisions being provided under NPHCE. N) NPHCE will provide funding for research programme which will include all the important geriatric problems including Alzheimer disease. Apart from this, the mental health problems are being taken up separately through a dedicated National Mental Health Programme, which will take care of elderly also.

20. Central, some States, some Municipal and some Private Hospitals give free or concessional treatment including pathological investigations. Many Trusts, NGO’s like Harmony , Silver Inning Foundation , HELP Library ;Organizations, Lions` Club, Rotary Clubs, Associations etc arrange free/concessional camps, lectures, counseling, supply of required medical equipments free or concessional rate etc. Many Chemists give concessions in medicines. Large number of Organizations has come up with alternative Medical Care Systems like Ayurved, Homeopath, Yoga, Acupressure, Reiky etc etc free or at a cost.

21. National Insurance Company has introduced Varishtha Mediclaim Policy for Senior Citizens between 60 to 80 years EXTEDABLE UP TO 90 YEARS with a basic cover of Rs 1 lakh covering Hospitalization & domiciliary hospitalization and Rs. 2 lakh for critical illness. It shall cover pre existing diseases after claimless 1 year. Many other Insurance Companies also offer various schemes for Health Insurance.


22. IRDA (Insurance Regulatory & Development Authority) has accepted several recommendations of the Committee on Health Insurance of Senior Citizens (Shastry Committee) in January, 2009 and these are under examination & implementation by Finance Ministry.

23. Travel: - i) Reservation of two seats is kept for Senior Citizens in front row of the buses of the State Road Transport Undertakings & in some cases; they are allowed to occupy seats reserved for handicaps, if vacant. In BEST buses in Mumbai, Senior Citizens are allowed to enter from front door. BEST has provided 5 seats recently. ii) Some State Governments are giving fare concession to Senior Citizens at different rates & to different age groups in the State Road Transport Undertaking buses running out of city areas. In Maharashtra, 50% concession is allowed to all Senior Citizens of 65 & above in all ST buses running out of city. In MBMT (Mira-Bhayander Municipal Transport Corporation) buses running in city area also, 50% concession is given. Some concession should be given in Taxi & Rickshaw fares also. In Punjab, women Senior Citizens are allowed free travel by ST buses. Some States are introducing Bus Models, which are convenient to the elderly. iii) Indian Railways provide 40% fare concession in all Mail/Express including Rajdhani/Shatabadi/Jan Shatabadi trains for Senior Citizens aged 60 years and above for males and 50% to women aged 58 and above. iv) Indian Railways also have the facility of separate counters for Senior Citizens for purchase/booking/cancellation of tickets, for Main Line Trains. Two lower berths are reserved in each coach for Senior Citizens & Women of 45 & above travelling alone. v) Wheel Chairs for use of older persons are available at all junctions, District Headquarters and other important stations for the convenience of needy persons including the older persons. vi) Ramps for wheel chairs movement are available at the entry to important stations. vii) Specially designed coaches with provisions of space for wheel chairs, hand rail and specially designed toilet for handicapped persons have been introduced. viii) Recently, Railways have provided battery operated trolleys to take Senior Citizens and disabled to and from their coaches along with their luggage. viii) Railways grant 75% concession to Senior Citizens undergoing major heart/cancer operations from starting station to Hospital station for self & one companion. ix) In Mumbai suburban trains, certain seats are reserved from 12 to 15 hrs in specified compartments. There is necessity of a separate coach & reservation of 3 seats in all First Class Compartments.

24. Ministry of Civil Aviation: i) Indian Airlines is providing 50 per cent Discount on Normal Economy Class fare for all domestic flights to Indian senior citizens who have completed the age of 60 years subject to certain conditions. ii) Air India is offering discount of 55% to senior citizens of 60 plus on flights to USA, UK and Europe on economy class. For Identity card, 2 passport sized photographs have to be submitted along with the form. iii) Sahara Airlines is offering 50% discount on basic fare for travel on its domestic flights only to senior citizens who have attained the age of 62 years. Discount is applicable in economy class only. iv) Kingfisher Airlines offers discount in Business class only for citizens of 65 years or above on sectoral basis. Age proof required. v) Jetlite offers a discount of 50% on economy class for citizens of 65 years or above. One passport sized photograph required on the form along with age proof. vi) Jet Airways offers discount to senior citizens of 65 years or above. For availing discount in domestic flights, senior citizens have to fill up a discount form along with a passport sized photograph and Age proof certificate. Jet Airways also provides Senior Citizen I-Card which is available in all ticket counters and requires 2 passport sized photographs and age proof certificate. For the I- Card, a very nominal amount is charged.

25. Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment: i) Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment is the nodal Ministry responsible for welfare of the Senior Citizens. It had announced the National Policy on Older Persons covering all concerns pertaining to the welfare of older persons. The National Policy for Senior Citizens, 2011 is under examination in this Ministry. This Ministry is celebrating World Elder Day on 1st October every year and gives Vayoshreshtha Awards to Senior Citizens doing outstanding work. Maharashtra is not doing this.
ii) The Ministry is also implementing following schemes for the benefit of senior citizens:
(A) An Integrated Programme for Older Persons (Plan Scheme) – This Scheme has been formulated by revising the earlier scheme of “Assistance to Voluntary Organizations for Programmes relating to the Welfare of the Aged”. Under this Scheme with effect from 1-4-2008, financial assistance up to 90% of the project cost is provided to NGOs, Panchayati Raj Institutions/local bodies for establishing and maintaining Programmes catering to basic needs of Older Persons particularly food, shelter & health care; Programmes to build & strengthen inter generational relationships between children, youth & eiders; Programmes for encouraging Active & Productive Ageing; Programmes for providing Institutional as well as Non-institutional Care/Services to Elders; Research, Advocacy & Awareness building Programmes in the fields of Ageing and Any other Programmes in the BEST INTEREST of Older Persons. Schools, Colleges, Educational Institutes & Recognized Youth Organizations starting such Programmes for Older Persons shall be given 100% cost of such Projects. On going Projects under pre-revised scheme shall continue to get grant-in-aid for establishing & maintaining Old Age Homes, Day Care Centres, Mobile Medicare Units etc, as in (B) below. 7 Day Care Centres are provided in Navi Mumbai by Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation. One Day Care Centre is run by Family Welfare Association with help of Mumbai Mahanagar Palika & Sion Hospital. (B) The Scheme of Assistance to Panchayati Raj Institutions/ Voluntary Organizations/Self Help Groups for Construction of Old Age Homes/Multi-Service Centres for older persons (Non Plan Scheme) - Under this Scheme, one time construction grant for Old Age Homes/Multi-Service Centre is provided to non-governmental organizations on the recommendations of the State Governments/ UT Administrations.(C) National Policy on Older Persons (NPOP), 99 lays down the formation of National Association of Senior Citizens by the Government with a provision of complete expenditure at Central & State level for initial 15 years for which no concrete action is taken by Government nor any of the Organization working for Senior Citizens has been able to get this done!! If such a National Association is established, it will ensure implementation of NPOP, 99/NPSC, 2011 expeditiously.

26. Maintenance & Welfare of Parents & Senior Citizens Act, 2007 (Act 56) has been passed by Parliament and has been made law. It will have far reaching effects on Senior Citizens of India. This Act includes the following aspects:-
a) Senior Citizens can claim maintenance from children/grand children. b) Tribunal shall decide such claims expeditiously. c) Property of Senior Citizens shall be protected from forcible transfer. d) A Geriatric Ward shall be provided in every District Level Hospital. e) An Age Old Home shall be available in each District. f) Abandoning a Senior Citizen shall be punishable with imprisonment of 3 months or fine up to Rs 5000 or both. Many States have legislated similar Acts and established Tribunals. Some States have yet to act. Maharashtra has notified Rules on 23-6-10 and has nominated tribunals also.


27. Ministry of Telecommunications: - i) Faults/complaints of Senior Citizens are given priority by registering them under Senior Citizens category with VIP flag, which is a priority category. ii) Senior Citizens are allowed to register telephone connection under N-OYT Special Category, which is a priority category. iii) MTNL in NCR offers a discount of 25% on Rs. 250 per month Plan. Age limit is 65 years or above.

28. Courts in the country accord priority to cases involving older persons and ensures their expeditious disposal. According to provisions of Chapter III of the Personal Law (Hindu) and Chapter IX of Code Of Criminal Procedure, older persons can claim maintenance from their children. Fast Track Courts are established to deal with cases of Senior Citizens promptly.

29. Large number of Old Age Homes/ Homes for terminally ill for Senior Citizens exists, where free as well as paying arrangements are provided with various facilities. Separate Colonies for Senior Citizens with community kitchen, safety needs, social & cultural necessities, medical facilities etc are provided by many private agencies at different places. Private enterprisers have started to produce various equipments etc, keeping in view the special needs of elderly population. Public transport also is providing Senior Citizen Friendly services. You can call ‘1298’ Senior Citizens Referral Helpline in Mumbai.

30. a) Mumbai Police (1090), NGO Helpline for Senior Citizens (1298) & many other Organizations have given Help Lines for Senior Citizens.

31. Large number of Associations Of Senior Citizens have come up in all areas, giving opportunities to express & share one’s views, get knowledge about various facilities available, get entertainment, group support etc. All India Senior Citizens Confederation, Help Age, Dignity Foundation, Harmony Foundation and many others are doing Yemen service to Senior Citizens and fight for their cause & welfare. Each Association must endeavor to do their best to serve senior citizens & citizens of their area. They should pursue their Municipal authorities to provide Day Care & Physio Therapy Centres in their area. They should pursue with local Public & Private Sector Undertakings to provide various facilities for Senior Citizens through their CSR/PPP funds. They should also help BPL Senior Citizens to get IGNOAP & other benefits.

32. i) Appellate Public Information Officer & Chief Post Master General, Maharashtra Circle, Mumbai has advised on 8-11-06 that they have issued instructions to all Units of Maharashtra to have 2 Ques in front of each Counter. One will be only for Senior Citizens, so that they can get their turn for service earlier.
ii) Public Information Officer & Dy General Manager, Western Railway, Mumbai has advised on 2-4-06 that directives have been issued to all Divisions that there should be separate Ques for Senior Citizens for providing case papers, Consultation with Doctors and issue of Medicines in all Railway Hospitals, Dispensaries, Health Units etc.

33. Protection of Life & Property of Senior Citizens: Each Police Commissioner/Police Station has been instructed to take all necessary steps for protection of life & property of Senior Stations. In city like Mumbai, where very large number of Senior Citizens reside alone at different places and where crime rate is quite high, it will be surprising to know that Mumbai Police reaches for help of all kinds to Senior Citizens within 2 minutes or maximum 7 minutes of your call on their Help Line 1090 or 100. This is what Shri D.Sivanandan, Mumbai Police Commissioner said in the function for inauguration of One more Referral 24 x 7 Senior Citizens Help Line ‘1298’ for Mumbai`s Senior Citizens by Nargis Dutt Memorial Charitable Trust on 10-5-10 in association with Silver Inning Foundation, Help Age India, Harmony for Silvers Foundation, FESCOM and 1298 – Ambulance Access for all foundation. Mumbai Police has provided 690 Motor Cycles of high speed and 400 vehicles fitted with GIS GPS facility with efficient net work of telephones etc, which enable police to reach the spot within 2 minutes and maximum 7 minutes. Senior Citizens can also call Police for help for any such emergencies like:
i) When they urgently require help of Medical Professionals,
ii) When they face situations that involve physical violence or pose a risk to their lives from outsiders or family members,
iii) When they need counseling to quell their feeling of despair & loneliness.

Senior Citizens should get themselves registered on line on www.hamarisuraksha.com or www.mumbaipolice.org or on 1090 or by going to nearer Police Stations. All personal information will be kept confidential. They should also get their domestic servants, security guards of the Society, Milk/Newspaper suppliers etc also registered for better & quicker service by Police. Such registration is not compulsory for use of toll-free Help Line 1090 or 100. Help Line is a special service for Senior Citizens that will take care of physical & mental care of all Senior Citizens at all time for 24/7.

34. Accommodation for Associations of Senior Citizens: Maharashtra Government has directed all Municipalities to make available a suitable class room in municipal schools to nearby Associations of Senior Citizens free of charge for the whole day on Sunday/Holiday for their meetings & activities. Education Offichttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifer, BMMC has issued orders for this vide para A© of circular no. SRSC/3943 dt 1-2-08. Associations may conduct Day-Care Centers with benevolence of Municipal Authorities in the same room from 17 hrs to 20 hrs.


Compiled by M.V.Ruparelia
Email: mvrup@yahoo.co.in

Monday, May 16, 2011

Can Positive Thinking Help Healthy Aging?

Aging is a divine and beautiful expression of life, but how to attain it? Different people give different solutions, but the simplest method that comes to mind is whether positive thinking can help healthy aging? The answer is definitely yes. To practice positive thinking for healthy aging, we should know the art of letting go the negativity in us. ‘Forgive and forget’ is the best policy to inculcate a positive mindset. Negative thinking leads to anxiety, tension and stress, resulting in poor health and we become prone to diseases like high blood pressure, heart problems, diabetes, etc., thus spoiling the healthy aging process.


Our thoughts influence our health

Positive thoughts condition the brain positively and our body follows the commands of our brain. Negative thoughts create negative vibrations which set a pessimistic mind frame. If we grow old mentally, we grow old physically too as the aging process gets accelerated. Harboring negative thoughts in your mind is a sure way to invite depression and fear that do not allow you to enjoy the wonderful experience of aging process.


Health Benefits


Positive thinking can give great health benefits needed most in old age. We should watch our thoughts because our thoughts become our words, words become actions and our actions culminate in our well being. Growing in age is a natural phenomena but a person with positive thinking never gets old by heart and thus always remains in good spirits and pink of health, and becomes a messenger of happy thoughts.


Think positive for healthy physical growth


People who age well are those who live with positive thinking. We can change our lives the way we want by controlling our thought process, thus sowing the seeds of happy and healthy aging process. Even in adverse situations only positive thinking helps healthy aging, so, change your mind set before it is too late and reap the benefits of healthy aging.


Source:
http://www.todaysseniors.com/wp/senior-health/can-positive-thinking-help-healthy-aging/

Saturday, May 14, 2011

What Senior Citizens do on Computer , What they need : Online India Senior Citizen Survey Report May 2011


Report of SIF 'Baseline Survey of Online Senior Citizen 2011'

India is a vast country both in terms of area as well as population. It has a total area of 3,288,000 square kilometers. Its Total population as on 2001 was over 1 Billion.

India is gradually undergoing a demographic change. With decline in fertility and mortality rates accompanied by an improvement in child survival and increased life expectancy, a significant feature of demographic change is the progressive increase in the number of elderly persons.The disintegration of the joint family system and the emergence of nuclear families, has affected the care of the aged the most, Elderly today are the most ignored and neglected segment.

The population of aged people above 60 yrs as on 2010 was estimated at 96 million, i.e. around 8% of total population. According to UN the population of 60+ in 2050 will be around 20%.Life expectancy has increased 60% in last 60 years from 42yrs in 1950 to 69yrs in 2009.Today India has 2nd largest number of Elderly.There is sharp increase in population of Young Old 60yrs to 69 yrs and Old old 80+. Due to this demand and needs of various age groups have changed. Now it is time for civil society and government to rethink their strategy to address the needs of Senior Citizens.

This 'Baseline Survey of Online Senior Citizen 2011' is one of the projects of SILVER INNING FOUNDATION (SIF). This online surveyhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif for Senior Citizens will help us to understand their needs and devise much better programme & projects for the overall well being of our Elders.

This survey was conducted by Silver Inning Foundation (SIF) to assess the requirement and need of Senior Citizens from 1ST Feb 2011 to 31st March 2011. It was hosted on the Survey Site www.questionpro.com at the link: http://SIFBaselineSurveyofOnlineSeniorCitizen2011.questionpro.com

The questionnaire was online for about two month. Wide publicity was given to this survey in a large number of web groups, blogs, websites and by email to Senior Citizens associations, Federations etc.

A total of 646 persons viewed the Questionnaire; however only 231 ventured to answer. Four dropped out half way and their responses were ignored. Results below indicate the verdict of remaining 227 persons i.e. 98.27% (who started and completed).Results are given in Five sections and followed by detail report.


Brief is as following , for detail report see the attachment:

Question 1
What is your Age: 42.04% in Age group of 60yrs to 69 Yrs

Question 2
What is your Gender: Male 78.57%

Question 3
What is your Marital Status: Married 80.91%

Question 4
What is your major source of Income: Pension / Social Security 33.53%

Question 5

How much Time you spend in a day on internet/computer: 1hour to 2 hour 31.70%

Question 6

Which are the activity/activities you do on internet: Email 29.38%

Question 7

What is your typical Daily Activity: Reading Newspaper 15.37%

Question 8

What are your Hobbies: Internet/Computer 19.09%

Question 9
What Kind of Problems you often Face: Health 31.64%

Question 10
What kind of Programme/Project you want your club/organization/NGO to organize: Informative programme about health/legal/finance/religious etc 10.81%


Question B

Top 5 Activities of Senior Citizens on Computer:
1. Email
2. Search
3. Facebook
4. You tube
5. Chatting

Question C
Top 5 Daily activities of Senior Citizens:
1) Reading Newspaper
2) Watch TV
3) Sit on Computer/Internet
4) Exercise /Fitness
5) Interact with friends

Question D
Top 5 Problems of Senior Citizens:
1. Health
2. Isolation/Loneliness
3. Monetary
4. Memory Loss
5. Neglect

Question E
Top 5 Programme Senior Citizens wants from NGO’s / Organisation:
1. Informative programme about health/legal/finance/religious etchttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif
2. Volunteering Opportunity
3. Workshop / Seminar
4. Entertainment event
5. One Day Picnic


For detail report please write to us at: silverinnings@gmail.com


We Thank all the Senior Citizens and organization specially ‘Society for Serving Seniors (SSS Global)’ working for elderly for their participation and success of this Online National survey. We are confident this report will help Ngo’s, Senior Citizens Associations/Organisation, civil society and government to address the issues of Elderly.


The survey report was compiled by Sailesh Mishra, Founder President Silver Inning Foundation , NGO working with Elderly in India.



About Silver Inning Foundation (SIF):

SIF is part of Social Enterprise Silver Innings which hosts one of the most comprehensive and dedicated website for elderly &their family www.silverinnigs.com . The vision, mission and goals of SIF are centered on creating and implementing services and programmes that are holistic in nature and address the need to acknowledge the much needed supportive environment that the elderly deserve. It looks at reintegrating the elderly into mainstream society and lives with dignity. Silver Innings is working towards creating Elder Friendly World where Ageing becomes a Positive and Rewarding Experience.



Contact:
Website : www.silverinnings.com ; www.silverinningfoundation.org
Blogs: http://peopleforsocialcause.blogspot.com/ ; http://silverinnings.blogspot.com/ ; http://ardsigreatermumbai.blogspot.com/
Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J_jz2xKhz1E
Pictures : http://www.flickr.com/photos/sailesh2000_2000/
Follow on Twitter: http://twitter.com/sailesh2000
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/sailesh.mishra
Mobile: 0091 9987104233 / 9029000091

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