Caregiving and support for older persons

Learning and thoughts on Caregiving and Support for Older Persons at the Open-ended Working Group #OEWG14, UN headquarters, New York, 20th to 22nd May'24. 

Hira Mehta, official Spokesperson of Silver Inning Foundation at 14th OEWG, UN HQ, NYC, May'24 

Hira Mehta attended an in-person CSO Consultation on the implementation of Human Rights Council resolution on care and support during #OEWG14 on Ageing Rights for older persons (9 am-12 pm, 23 May 2024) at the UN Secretariat Building, UNHQ, New York as representative of Silver Inning Foundation. The meeting was chaired by Asako Hattori and moderated by Martyna Balciunaite, UN official. The topic of discussions were (1) what human rights are relevant for older persons as caregivers and receivers of care and support and (2) what are the specific challenges and rights issues faced by older persons facing discrimination in the context of providing or receiving care and support (older women, older persons with disability, older persons belonging to minorities, etc).

At this meeting, Hira spoke about Dementia and Alzheimer’s and grandparenting responsibilities, especially for women.

Most agreed with her thought that, grandparenting should be a choice and not an expected support. In urban India, the extended family living under one roof is not a given anymore and today's nuclear structure, means more expectations from older persons. In our culture, the role of the grandparent is perceived as a role to teach traditions, moral values, religious values and overseeing their well-being and more. Some older persons find themselves moving abroad every six months to look after the grand kids. While some easily adapt to a new place and society, others find it difficult to leave the old ways and find it difficult to adjust. The choice is often not given and that could cause a great deal of issues for older persons in the household.

Speaking about caregiving, Hira suggested that dementia be included in the disability package of health and health services as an essential, for providing comprehensive support, ensuring access to necessary medical and social services and alleviating the financial burden on families affected by dementia. Dementia causes significant cognitive impairment, affecting memory, reasoning, communication, and the ability to perform daily tasks. This aligns with the definition of disability as a condition that substantially limits one or more major life activities. She also mentioned that most of the time families treat it as old age issues and are unable to recognize it as dementia. Some are not willing to accept the fact and therefore early diagnose takes a back seat resulting in delay of treatment. Treating it as a disability will not only improve the quality of life for those with dementia, but also support the family and caregivers to deal with it effectively. Cost of care is high and dementia care will be expensive, with regard to medical treatments, long-term care services and out-of-pocket expenses. As dementia progresses, individuals will experience functional decline and require assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, eating, and managing medications. Individuals with dementia require regular attention and medical care to manage symptoms, monitor progression and treat comorbidity conditions. Long-term care is involved and many individuals with dementia will eventually need long-term care services, such as in-home care, adult day programs, assisted living, or nursing home care. Therefore, Hira requested that dementia be part of the disability package of health and health services, so that integrating it into disability packages will ensure that persons with dementia receive the support and care they need.

Irrespective of health and health services, governments and authorities should conduct public awareness campaigns to educate the public about dementia. It would help raise awareness about dementia, reduce stigma, and promote advocacy for better care and support services. Governments and health organizations also should develop policies that explicitly recognize dementia as a disability and outline the entitlements and services available. The society and community also need to support by expanding community-based support groups, adult day care centres and care programs.

UN 14th OEWG May'24 

One of the sharing that hit Hira hard at this meeting, was the sharing of a lady from the Far East. Belonging to the LGBTQ+ community, she talked about the stigma and discrimination, especially if institutionalized in the past or after having overcome mental issues, including anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation. Support groups are limited in number and despite increasing visibility and acceptance world over, social stigma and discrimination continue to impact her well-being. She called for attention towards continued efforts needed to ensure comprehensive legal protections, improve access to competent healthcare and combat social stigma and discrimination.

 Assisted living or Elder homes, is an option and respite for family caregivers, who need assistance during times of illness or travel or their own job constraints. Family members may get peace of mind knowing that their loved ones are receiving professional care and support in a safe and nurturing environment. Sadly, sometimes, older persons are not questioned about their preferences. Besides, older persons, may become vulnerable to exploitation, abuse, or neglect by caregivers and sometimes financially exploited too, if family does not pay attention or visit often enough. The 24/7 care by trained staff, helps ensure that older persons with complex medical needs or mobility issues receive the assistance they require. Dependence on caregivers for activities of daily living, the lack of mental stimulation and engagement in institutional settings, however, can accelerate cognitive decline, particularly for individuals with dementia or cognitive impairments. Older persons are at increased risk of experiencing depression, anxiety and other mental health issues with the loss of personal belongings and comfort, independence, social isolation and changes in assisted living environment with the limited privacy and loss of personal space. Financial burdens, particularly in places where long-term care services are expensive or not covered by insurance, often become the reason for home treatments for some families. High costs of care whether at home or assisted living option, can deplete the savings and assets, impacting financial status of the family. While institutionalization may be necessary for some older persons who require intensive care or support, it can have significant implications on mental health and quality of life.

In conclusion, caregiving is an essential aspect of an older person’s life cycle and therefore, it is necessary to continue raising awareness about the realities of caregiving and its cost. Advocating for policies that provide adequate support and resources, whether it is through community programs, government initiatives, or individual acts of kindness is important. There is a need to create a more compassionate and supportive environment, to ensure that both caregivers and care recipients receive the required assistance and resources.

~  Hira Mehta | Author | Podcaster | Motivational Speaker | Soft Skills Trainer

Silver Inning Foundation Oral Statement for UN 14th OEWG on Ageing

Hira Mehta - Spokesperson of Silver Inning Foundation presenting Oral Statement at UN 14th OEWG

 I am Hira Mehta from Silver Inning Foundation, an NGO working with older persons across India. 

In India, 149 million older persons are in 60 plus age group belonging to diverse cultures. More than 65% live in rural area and 90% have no social security. Most of the older persons depend on the family support system. Today, changing values are weakening inter-generational ties that is hallmark of our traditional family institution. 

At age of 58, I was mentally and physically fit, but I had to retire without choice. This left me feeling socially isolated, lost and disturbed for a long time, because I felt I was capable of more. Today, with meager 14$ pension per month, I struggle to live decent life and find it difficult to access and afford right health care.   

Challenges that are significantly influencing older persons’ right to health are unavailability of healthcare facilities and services, lack of awareness, education, early detection and prevention, as also socio-economic factors, such as disparities between urban and rural lifestyle. 

As Older Person I want to ‘Age with Rights’ to maintain healthy well-being with dignity. Therefore, multi-faceted approach with robust healthcare policies, increased investment in healthcare infrastructure, access, affordability and prioritization of preventive healthcare is required. More importantly, expansion of health insurance coverage for all older persons is also needed.  

India, has sizable population of persons with Alzheimer’s disease. Illiteracy and social taboos surround this disease, I must admit that for a long time, even I did not know the difference between age related and dementia related issues. Hence, there is a strong need for awareness campaigns, training, well-defined policy and national dementia plan.  

We align with the statement made by ‘Global Alliance for the Rights of Older People’, a ‘UN Convention for Older Person Rights’ would guarantee older persons’ access to affordable healthcare to help them maintain optimum level of physical, mental and emotional well-being and prevent or delay the onset of illness, to live life with dignity and self-fulfilment. 

Date 20th May'24 

Photo of Civil Society Group at UN 14th OEWG on Ageing

The 14th session of the UN Open-ended Working Group on Ageing (OEWG) was held between 20-24th May 2024 in New York. It is a critical time for civil society to maintain pressure for the adoption of a United Nations' Convention on the rights of older people. 

Silver Inning Foundation Statement for UN 14th OEWG on Ageing

 The 14th session of the UN Open-ended Working Group on Ageing (OEWG) was held between 20-24th May 2024 in New York. It is a critical time for civil society to maintain pressure for the adoption of a United Nations' Convention on the rights of older people. 

On behalf of Silver Inning Foundation Ms. Hira Mehta - official Spokesperson and Ms. Ramaa Subramaniam Co Founder of Silver Inning Foundation participated in this esteem global meet. 

Silver Inning Foundation submitted this following official statement for The 14th session of the UN Open-ended Working Group on Ageing (OEWG) :  https://social.un.org/ageing-working-group/documents/fourteenth%20session/INPUTS%20NGOS/Silver%20Inning%20Foundation.pdf

Date 9th April’24

The Chair, 

Open-Ended Working Group on Ageing on Ageing

14th General Assembly, May’ 24

United Nations

New York

Statement of Silver Inning Foundation for Fourteenth Session of Open-Ended Working Group on Ageing (OEWG) on Ageing on “Right to health and access to health services”

Indian society is undergoing rapid transformation under the impact of industrialization, urbanization, technical & technological change, Education and globalization.  

Consequently, the traditional values and institutions are in the Process of erosion and adaptation, resulting in the weakening of Intergenerational ties that were the hallmark of the traditional Family, this has great impact on older persons.

Senior citizens in India is a person who is 60plus and they belong to diverse groups. Consequently, the ageing issues are also different and a lot depends on the family support system the older persons enjoy. The heterogeneity among the older persons population must be factored into framing appropriate models of care for them.³

As per the latest report, there were 149 million persons aged 60 years and above in 2022 (as of 1 July) ² comprising around 10.5% of the country's population. And, by 2050, this population will double to 20.8%, with the absolute number at 347 million.

The right to health is a fundamental right that ensures individuals have access to necessary healthcare services and a state of well-being. In India, the recognition and implementation of the right to health have evolved over time through constitutional provisions, legal frameworks, and judicial interpretations. ¹

Challenges in Realizing the Right to Health: ¹

• Healthcare Infrastructure: Inadequate healthcare infrastructure in rural and remote areas, shortages of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and qualified healthcare professionals.

 • Affordability: The high cost of healthcare services, including diagnostics, medications, and treatments.

 • Regional Disparities: There are significant regional disparities in healthcare access, with rural areas and certain states facing greater challenges in terms of availability and quality of healthcare services.

 • Health Awareness and Education: Limited health awareness and inadequate health education among the population hinder preventive healthcare measures and early detection of diseases.

 • Social Determinants of Health: Socio-economic factors, such as poverty, education, sanitation, and access to clean water, significantly influence health outcomes.

 • Gender Disparities: Gender discrimination and biases often result in unequal access to healthcare services for women, particularly in reproductive health.

Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach involving robust healthcare policies, increased investment in healthcare infrastructure, prioritization of preventive healthcare, expansion of health insurance coverage, and targeted interventions to address health disparities and social determinants of health.¹

Government Initiatives and Public Health Programs ¹

The Indian government some notable public health programs to promote the right to health and improve healthcare accessibility across the country:

National Health Mission (NHM): The NHM is one of the flagship programs of the Indian government aimed at improving healthcare services, especially in rural and underserved areas. It encompasses two sub-missions: the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) and the National Urban Health Mission (NUHM to strengthen healthcare infrastructure, enhancing human resources for health, promoting maternal and child health, addressing communicable and non-communicable diseases.

Ayushman Bharat - Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY): is a health insurance program launched in 2018. It provides financial protection to over 500 million vulnerable individuals and families by offering cashless coverage for secondary and tertiary healthcare services.

Recommendations¹

•           Strengthening Healthcare Infrastructure: Increase investment in healthcare infrastructure, particularly in rural. 

•           Enhancing Primary Healthcare: Strengthening primary healthcare services for comprehensive and preventive care.

•           Addressing Health Disparities: To address regional and socio-economic disparities in healthcare access and affordability.  

•           National Dementia Strategy: Need for national policy with a very clear and well defined action plan since India has a sizeable population of Alzheimer's disease affected people and certain traits like illiteracy and social taboos make the country unique.

•           Universal Health Coverage: Universal health coverage by expanding health insurance schemes to all 60plus

•           Focus on Preventive Healthcare: Prioritizing preventive healthcare measures, health education, vaccination campaigns, and early detection of diseases.

 

Conclusion: The right to health is a fundamental right in India, enshrined in the Constitution and supported by legal frameworks, judicial interpretations, and landmark court judgments. While progress has been made in promoting healthcare access and improving public health, challenges remain in fully realizing the right to health especially for the older persons.

We at Silver Inning Foundation strongly advocate and demand ‘UN Convention for Older Person Rights’ so that older persons can have access to healthcare to help them maintain or regain the optimum level of physical, mental and emotional well-being and to prevent or delay the onset of illness and Live life with dignity and self-fulfillment.

 

Reference:

¹The Right to Health as a Fundamental Right in India: JETIR June 2023, Volume 10, Issue 6 https://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2306301.pdf

 ² UNPFA INDIA AGEING REPORT 2023 https://india.unfpa.org/sites/default/files/pub-pdf/20230926_india_ageing_report_2023_web_version_.pdf

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Sailesh Mishra, Founder President, Silver Inning Foundation

What is Ageing Process

 Ageing is a natural process that occurs in living organisms over time, characterized by a gradual decline in physiological function and an increased vulnerability to disease and death. It is a complex and multifactorial process influenced by genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

Image copyright: https://i.ytimg.com/vi/jc4yK0zZ-cQ/maxresdefault.jpg

At the cellular level, ageing is associated with a range of changes including a decrease in cellular energy production, accumulation of damage to cellular components such as DNA, and altered gene expression. These changes can lead to a variety of age-related diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, and dementia.

While ageing is an inevitable part of life, there are things that individuals can do to promote healthy ageing, such as maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, reducing stress, and avoiding harmful habits such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Researchers are also exploring various interventions and treatments aimed at slowing down or reversing the ageing process.

Ageing is the process of growing old or maturing, which involves a gradual decline in the functioning of various physiological systems in the body. This decline is a natural and inevitable part of the human life cycle and affects everyone as they grow older. Ageing can be characterized by changes in appearance, such as wrinkles and gray hair, as well as changes in physical and cognitive abilities. Some of the factors that contribute to ageing include genetic factors, environmental factors, lifestyle choices, and other external factors. While ageing is a normal and expected part of the human life cycle, it can also increase the risk of certain health problems and chronic diseases.

Music and dance good for Senior Citizens

Why we started UMANG Senior Citizens Talent Show since 2008, our goal is not only to provide platform/ opportunity to showcase their hidden Talent but to also promote Active Ageing. ❤️

Music and dance have been linked to improved physical and mental health in older adults. Studies have shown that listening to music can reduce anxiety, blood pressure, and pain, as well as improve sleep quality, mood, mental alertness, and memory. 

Participating in the arts, such as music and dance, has been shown to have positive effects on cognitive function, memory, self-esteem, and social interaction.

Research has also found that dance can have a positive impact on brain health, particularly when it involves learning complex patterns or movements .

Additionally, a one-week dance residency program has been developed to help older adults stay active and engaged.

Overall, music and dance can be beneficial for healthy and active aging. It can help to reduce stress, improve mental and physical health, and promote social interaction.

#SeniorCitizens #SeniorCitizen #SilverInnings #UMANG2023 

UMANG 2023 - India’s Largest Stage Talent Show for Senior Citizens

UMANG 2023 is presented by Rotary Club of Mumbai Nariman Point, Rotaract Club and Inner Wheel Club of Mumbai Nariman point in association with Silver Inning Foundation, NGO working with Senior Citizens.

UMANG’ a Unique Talent show of Senior Citizens is being organized by Silver Inning Foundation since 2008.

We at Silver Innings believe “Ageing is not ‘lost youth’ but a new stage of opportunity and strength” – Betty Friedan.

USP about this unique event is that Participant and Audience do not belong to any particular organization, NGO or group. People from different part of Mumbai from Virar, Thane, Navi Mumbai to South Mumbai came to witness and perform the ageless talent.

This year UMANG 2023, is biggest ever Senior Citizens Stage Talent Show, this time total 170 Performers are presenting 21 Performance - breaking all previous years record. Total 1000 people will witness the Silver Magic

Event Date: Saturday 4th March 2023 Event Time: 9am to 12.30pm Venue: Birla Matoshree, New Marine Lines, near Bombay Hospital, Mumbai.

Entry through Invitation only. Registration is mandatory.

Our Networking Partners are: HelpAge India OYA - Open Your Arms Sophia College, Mumbai Nirmala Niketan Senior Citizens Alumni Association, The Federation of Senior Citizen's Organisations of Maharashtra (FESCOM) and Photomist.

Email: silverinnings@gmail com

Website: https://silverinnings.in/

#umang2023 #seniorcitizens #SENIORCITIZEN #Silverinnings #oldage #mumbai #talent #talentshow

JAC of Senior Citizens Demands for BMC Elections 2022

 Joint Action Committee (JAC) Press Conference was held on 8th June 2022 at Mumbai Marathi Patrakar Sangh, Mumbai.

Silver Shakti!!!!!!!!

To make the 'Silver Voices' heard loud and clear and to make the 'Silver Presence' in society graceful and dignified; we have formed the Joint Action Committee (JAC) of various Organizations, NGOs working for Senior Citizens, researchers and academicians dedicated to the cause of elderly in Mumbai.  The Committee will strive to work with the BMC and various Political Parties to mainstream the special needs and demands of senior citizens.  We demand all Political parties to include issues of Senior Citizens in their Election Manifesto, as they are not only an important vote bank but also the important stakeholders with an estimated 25% of the Voting Population. If the Political Parties and Leaders fail to meet our Demands, we as the Powerful Vote bank will be forced to use NOTA in the upcoming BMC Elections.

A report released by the Ministry of Statistics, GOI in March 2019 said that the number of citizens over the age of 60 jumped by 35.5 per cent — from 7.6 crore in 2001 to 10.3 crore in 2011. In the upcoming elections, this population will be a major factor in deciding who comes to power. In Maharashtra, Senior citizens form around 10% of state population, which comes to an estimated 1.30 crore of Maharashtra’s and in Mumbai itself constitutes approximately 15 lakhs. 

The right to vote is the foundation of any democracy. The vote represents the voice of people and is therefore a powerful tool to exercise to bring about a change in their city and their country as a whole. Senior Citizen are Committed Voters and understand the importance of voting and engage in the process to become egalitarianism warriors in their own communities. Issues such as health care, medical facilities, prices of medicines, pensions, Shelter, retirement schemes and transportation, special attention for poor and homeless, will be upper most in the minds of the older people. To make sure that their needs are met and concerns are heard is the very need of the hour. 

Based on constitutional and legal provisions, Government of India and Maharashtra state government has formulated various policies and devised various programmes for the elders including National Policy for the Older Persons 1999 and Maharashtra Senior Citizens Policy 2013 and subsequently in 2018. However, these have remained only on Paper. After advocacy and constant struggle by Senior Citizens Originations from 2010 to 2013, The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on 5th August 2013 through its Resolution no. 622 cleared the Senior Citizens Policy in its general body meeting, which is first such policy by any Municipal Corporation in the country. This policy, which includes the provision of day care facilities and recreation grounds for them in every municipal ward as also medical helpline services and amenities in open spaces, was announced on 2013.  Further benefits included in the policy are, dedicated spaces for senior citizens in large housing complexes, library with books on spirituality and health, and ramps, railings at public toilets. Senior citizens would also be provided specialized healthcare at select civic hospitals for hypertension, diabetes, loss of vision and other ailments.  For the first phase of implementation, BMC had agreed to form a committee headed by the then Mayor Sunil Prabhu.

But it is with great regret and disappointment we note that a pittance of the expected work has been done by BMC after announcement of this Policy. A few Day care facilities and a few Nana Nani parks have been set up only at the whims and fancies of the Councilors. To make it worse there is no Budgetary provision has been made for the implementation of the Policy. It is shameful to state that an RTI filed for details of expenditure has received no response.

Based on the recommendations of the United Nations to which India is a signatory and the policies for senior citizens to which Central and State Governments have committed, the JAC demands the following:

                            I Finance and Planning  

a) Make a definite budgetary provision for the welfare and security of elders in the Senior Citizens policy, allocate 10% of BMC budget to Senior Citizens Policy 

b) Raise CSR funds for effective Implementation of initiatives for elders 

c) Corporators need to spend minimum 10% of their allocated funds for the welfare of Senior Citizens 

d) Form ‘Senior Citizens Policy Committee’ at HQ as well as at all the 24 administrative wards for Planning and Implementation. Senior Citizens Policy Committee’ to meet regularly for monitoring and evaluating implementation and progress of initiatives.  

e) Permanent Office for ‘BMC Senior Citizens Bhavan’ at a central, convenient accessible location.

f) Appointment of a Nodal Officer at the rank of Joint Commissioner/ Deputy Commissioner to monitor the progress of the implementation of the policies and programmes as well as to address the grievances of the senior citizens

g) The Community Development Officer (C.D.O.) / Social Worker at BMC to work on Seniors program, projects awareness, planning, implementation 

II Health Care and Nutrition - Health care should be affordable and accessible to all senior citizens 

a) Free medical treatment for all senior citizens at all Government Hospitals and Primary Health Center 

b) Establishment of a Geriatric ward at every Government hospital. Appoint Geriatric Expert / Doctors in all BMC hospitals

c) 'Mahatma Jyotirao Phule Jan Arogya Yojana' to be implemented at all hospitals and specially for Elders with no documents and homeless

d) Free / Subsidized Medicines / Generic Medicine to be made available

e) Reserve 10% bed for Geriatric population in private hospitals / nursing homes

f) Introduce the WHO Recommended Adult Vaccination Programme. Priority to senior citizens in all Vaccinations and Health Care initiatives

g) OPD special section / desk for Seniors / Display of Notice board at every hospitals of available facilities for Seniors  

h) Free / Subsidized Diagnosis at Government hospitals and clinics

i) MMC (Mobile Medical Clinic) for elders living in poor communities and elders below BPL

j) Wellness and Prevention program like Yoga, Alternative Therapies, AYUSH, Health camps for Seniors

k) Mental Health Screening in collaboration with BMC Hospitals 

l) MID Day Meal to be extended to poor seniors. To initiate GOI POSHAN Abhiyaan / Shiv Bhojan like scheme 

III   Shelter and Welfare: 

a) Multipurpose Senior Citizens Full Day Care Centre

b) Dementia Day Care Centre 

c) Respite Stay Centre

d) Homeless Elders Night Shelter

e) Policy for protection of Senior citizens during natural and manmade disasters  

f) Specific spaces and facilities to be reserved in Development Control and Promotion Regulations (DCPR), SRA and MHADA for Senior Citizens - Day Care Centres

                   IV    Protection of life and property of Senior Citizens

a) Legal Aid Cell to work on issues and problems faced by the elders

b) Special concession in Water and Property tax for Old Age Homes and Seniors Day Care Centers 

c) Provision to establish BMC Retired person's special cell  

d) Involve NSS and Civil Defense officers and volunteers for Safety and Security of Seniors

e) Special Call Center for Senior Citizens issues  

V Accessibility, transport and Age friendly environment

a) Application of WHO Global Age-friendly Cities Guidelines to city planning

b) Accessible, affordable and safe public transport

c) Age-friendly driving conditions and parking facilities

d) Age-friendly buildings, pavements and walkways, safe pedestrian crossings and adequate rest areas

e) Affordable, well-designed and safe housing 

f) Auto, Taxi, Water Transport to be sensitize towards Seniors

g) Special Concession and Travel arrangement for Senior Citizens in BMC Buses 

h) Age Friendly, Accessible Public Washroom and Sanitation 

VI Capacity Building and Visibility

a) Training of Caregivers, Para Professionals, Medical professionals  

b) Mandatory Celebration of Days of Senior Citizens : 15th June World Elder Abuse Awareness Day; 21st September World Alzheimer's Day  and 1st October World Elders Day  

c) Training and Sensitization of Senior Citizens Associations towards formation, management, of Trust / Society and various program and schemes of BMC

d) To give visibility to BMC Senior Citizens program and projects through Print, Audio Visual and social media 

e) To strengthen research and documentation in social gerontology

We the Senior Citizens of this City, State and Country are Responsible Citizens; we have wisdom, experience and time, we are asset to the Society, we are always willing to help government and authorities for welfare of society at large, we need Independence, Freedom, Security and Dignity; we can’t be ignored or neglected any more. We expect that we will see the importance of senior citizens and their demands in the election manifesto of your party and your candidates.

JAC Spokespersons for Coordination:

Dr. Rekha Bhatkhande  - Spokespersons

Vijay Aundhe - Spokespersons 

Prakash Borgaonkar - Spokespersons 

Adv. Nirmala Samant Prabhavalkar - Spokesperson

Sailesh Mishra - Coordinator

LIST OF JAC MEMBERS:

1. Adhata Trust

2. All India Bank Retirees Federation  

3. All India Central Government Pensioners Association

4. All India Retired Insurance Employees Federation

5. All India Retired Reserve Bank Employee Association

6. Brihan Mumbai Pensioners Association 

7. Brihan Mumbai Retired Employees Association

8. Center for Life Long Learning , TISS

9. Centre for the Study of Social Change (RRTC Mumbai) 

10. College of Social Work ( Autonomous) Nirmala Niketan

11. Dignity Foundation 

12. Dilasa Kendra of Shushrusha Citizens Cooperative Hospital, Mumbai

13. FESCOM  

14. General Insurance Pensioners, All India Federation  

15. GIC Pensioners Association 

16. Help Age India 

17. Indian Association of Retired persons (IARP) Mumbai 

18. Money Life Foundation

19. MTNL Pensioners Workers Associations

20. Silver Inning Foundation 

21. Sophia College (AUTONOMOUS)

22. The Family Welfare Agency 

Humans of Dementia - Yogesh

 Many people around the world leave their villages and hometowns to move to another city, state or sometimes even country, for the purpose of work. Some migrate with their entire families; however, some take the journey alone. Yogesh, a 33-year-old caregiver of person with Alzheimer’s at A1Snehanjali, is one such person who left his village to work full- time for the organization in Mumbai. Other employees like him, mostly men, have also moved to Mumbai from their respective villages for the work opportunity at A1Snehanjali. As a result, while the local employees mostly work in 12 hour shifts, employees like Yogesh stay at the centre 24/7, and work in shifts to care for the person with dementia at the time when other employees aren’t there. Living and working in the same place, A1Snehanjali is like Yogesh’s home and work-space at the same time, blurring the lines between the two. 

While Yogesh is a full-time employee at A1Snehanjali, his work does not really feel like a ‘job’ to him. Rather, he feels as if he is just at home taking care of his own family members. Not only does he regard his person with dementia, the Residents, as his family, but he also finds such proximity with other staff members, who he considers to be his really good friends. Sharing such a bond with his fellow colleagues and residents is one of the reasons that Yogesh has continued to work at A1Snehanjali for almost 8 years now. His own family back in the village also support him in his job as they believe it to be ‘punya ka kaam’ or virtuous work. They are very proud of him. Thus, Yogesh continues to be invested in providing support to the person with dementia and realizes it to be a fulfilling duty. 

Yogesh’s journey at A1Snehanjali began unexpectedly. He hadn’t thought of working here at all until his friend directed him to the Silver Innings organization. Yogesh was in search for work so he was asking around and looking for job openings. This is when one of his friends told him that there was an opening at Silver Innings, new assisted living elder care home ‘A1Snehanjali’. Yogesh came to the centre and has been working here ever since. Before coming to the centre, Yogesh didn’t know anything about Alzheimer’s disease, Dementia, Elder care or caregiving work, but since he learned about it and got onto the job, he hasn’t looked back.

Over the years, one of the challenges Yogesh has faced is when a new resident arrives for the first time in the centre. They often take a lot of time to adjust to the new environment and it can be difficult for them to settle. However, the caregivers make the new resident feel safe and comforted, and so over time, the residents become accustomed to the environment. He and others at A1Snehanjali have learnt how touch, smile and love make all feel homely. 

While caregiving work has a lot of ‘giving’ in the help that is provided by the caretakers to the person with dementia, Yogesh feels that it is also one of the few jobs that gives back to the caretaker. Everyday he learns something new, which keeps the experiences fresh and different everyday. This makes his job dynamic rather than monotonous, even after 8 years of working in the same place.

"Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around." - Leo Buscaglia.  

By Vansh Tibrewal

Visit Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/HumansofDementia 

Instagarm Page: https://www.instagram.com/sihumansofdementia/

#Silverinnings #HumansofDementia #dementia #Alzheimer #humanity #HumanityFirst #love #family #Instagram #A1Snehanjali #Relationship #Caregiver #Caregiving #Humans #Humanity #Caregiving #CarePartners #Touch #care #Smile 

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day 2020 Report

This year due to Corona Lockdown, WEAAD could not happen on ground, but we tried Innovative ONLINE Global event.

It was one of most successful event, hundreds of people of different age group, across globe from different country - India, Nepal, Africa, Australia, USA, South America, Europe participated with enthusiasm in this unique Online event, Posing with Purple Dot, creating awareness and raising voice against Elder Abuse. They posted Photo's with Purple Dot on all Social Media Platform including - Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, WhatsApp, ,Linkedin.

On occasion of 'World Elder Abuse Awareness Day' on 15th June 2020, INPEA in association with GAROP and Silver Innings seeks Support of all age group and gender to create awareness about elder abuse and it's prevention.

How did this happen ?  Our INPEA active member Sailesh Mishra from India who is social media expert came with idea to involve all age and gender people across globe with mass reach out, the whole program revolved around Two Hastag #StandWithOlderPersons AND #PurpleDotChallenge. Susan Somers - Inpea President and Ellen Graham- Secretariat Coordinator of Global Alliance for the Rights of Older People, approved the idea with deliberation. 

A hashtag, is sign #, is a type of metadata tag used on social networks such as Twitter and Instagram and other microblogging services. It lets users apply dynamic, user-generated tagging that helps other users easily find messages with a specific theme or content.

Some of photo's and images have been captured by Google search:

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We #StandWithOlderPersons and accept #PurpleDotChallenge to raise Awareness and Prevention of Elder Abuse.

On occasion of 'World Elder Abuse Awareness Day' on 15th June 2020, INPEA in association with GAROP and Silver Innings seeks Support of all age group and gender to create awareness about elder abuse and it's prevention.

INPEA wants social media users to post a picture of a #PurpleDot on their palm or any other place or paper and express their thoughts about Elder Abuse, Awareness, Stigma and Prevention.

INPEA has created a separate hash tag #StandWithOlderPersons to take a strong stand on Elders issues. Accept the Purple Dot Challenge and post it on your social media handles with hash tag #StandWithOlderPersons and #PurpleDotChallange

So friends let’s #StandWithOlderPersons and send your Purple dot challenge pictures with your thoughts on our / post social media accounts like Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram or Twitter.

This Challenge is open from 1st June to 30th June. 

We will also post your support on our all social media accounts.

You can also forward us your pictures through E-mail at silverinnings@gmail.com or WhatsApp on 91+ 9987104.....

Creative Support by Web Solutions India.

Thanks to all for your support 

You are 60 plus and your children's are in another country / city, Will you relocate ?

On July 5th 2018 we posted this important question on Facebook and we got various comments, which we thought are not only interesting but also shows change in mindset of traditional Indian / Asian Ageing population.

The Question we asked:  

You are 60 plus and your children's are in another country / city, they can't come and stay with you, But they ask you to come and settle with them, What will you do ?

Following Comments / Answers we got: 
Susan Dmello Barton or just maybe your kids who are abroad can find solutions and caregivers in YOUR OWN HOME IN India... they financially stand by you and visit often so win win for all.

Nidhi Raj Kapoor Good question and great conversation here. You should do a study and compile the findings. I would love to hear more.

Rajeshwar Devarakonda Sailesh Mishra Apt question. In my case, the child - me, relocated. I tried and then understood that the parents too have their social life and to expect them to make yet another sacrifice and become yet another object in your house is inhuman.



Sailesh Mishra I posted above question as this is one of most discussed among seniors. But I never thought, next day I will get this sad news... Like one of the answer when you try to relocate a Senior..... So this is new: USA woman, 92, kills son to avoid being sent into care home : https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-44707643

Vanita Kumta This is where having a heart to heart conversation and abstaining from imposing ones point of view over another could perhaps have been helpful to avoid a sad incident.

Bernadette Ferrer Sailesh Mishra, the article reported is an isolated incident. The mindset of US white folks are Selfish and Narcissistic. Do not Ever compare with their mindset with ANY ASIAN whose embedded culture revolves around family!
Second, the SON who was shot by his mother Did Not RESPECT his own mother's wishes to Stay Home. The Sons was Enabled by HIS family members & Girlfriend to FORCE his own mother to leave her comfort zone. Alternative solutions for his mothers5care exists...PAY FOR 24 HOUR Nurse or Caregivers!
Son was a Lemming!
I truly Suspect that the SON and Family members had a Hidden Financial Agenda.
Sailesh Mishra, you're seasoned enough to Discern cultural Mindsets!




Asha Uberoy No body wants to go and live in another country at this age. And remember a father can look after 10 kids. But 10 kids find it difficult to look after one father. It is the law of life. The water in the river keeps flowing forward. We must not, cannot blame our children or anyone else.
Bhavdeep Pandya We can always create ability to change.. greatest issue is people only change by force.
Bhavdeep Pandya I will go.. I am nearing 70 years


Vanita Kumta Firstly if one feels one can adjust to a new country at the age one has reached it is a good option,secondly one must have trust and faith in them only then,thirdly as long as one feels able to take care of ones needs independently it is worthwhile staying put,or resorting to assistance or joining an assisted living facility or a senior citizens home that suits ones needs financially. Most importantly one needs to keep on going on as far as possible,with a positive outlook and not succumb to the growing pressures around. It is a difficult situation and a level headed choice is necessary. Remaining as active as possible,without stretching out ones hands in desperation,yet asking and taking help when needed is imperative.

Vanita Kumta From real life instances I have seen ,I know seniors who have no children and lose their partner,I have also seen seniors who have children often living in India in the same city,yet at the crucial hour they are not in a position to reach out to their aged parents due to official engagements. All said and done life is unpredictable. It does not follow any book. One needs to actively accept everything 100% however unpleasant . Having said that it is necessary to have a plan of action worked out between the couple whilst they are both living,taking the children too into confidence. The problem more often than nought is that communication and discussion on certain unpleasant ,however obvious realities of life is often lacking or postponed for later. But unfortunately, ' Time And Tide Waits For No Man'.
Mohan Siroya Very sane advice.


Bina Umesh Raj Sharma I feel if at this age you can adjust and mentally prepated then one should go and stay with the children in India/abroad. The children will also be comfortable since the whole family is a one place unless they have an ulterior motive.


Bernadette Ferrer Your choice: Stubborn Self Independence versus You live by Their Rules of Their Home (Tables are turned..as children, they lived by Your Rules. As an elder parent, its pay back time ...hee heee)

Aileen Marques It will depend on what i feel, how I feel and why I feel... In terms of the choice of settling in a New place. In most cases i have handled senior citizens preferred the comfort of their house and neighbourhood in their silver years. they said they feel the urge to live life more independently.
Susan Dmello Barton I totally agree... the kids are always welcome to "visit" Also in this day and age you can monitor everything what with c.f. tv cameras and full time police cleared maids and home help... they enjoy their independence AND you are always welcome for visits and holidays etc... let's not take away their dignity.

Niraj Khedkar Something outside the question asked... With all due respect to all senior citizens:
Point is not who leaves his set life... Each life is earned with lot of effort... Kids aswell as parents... But Problem is something else...in India parents are so much emotional that they can't let there kids choose their life after 16/18yrs and accept it or not... Hence majority of parents never plan for their post retirement life... 
I am sure this generation already knows their kids are not going to take care of them... So they have already started saving and planning for post retirement life...
#healthyAging #postretirementplanning
#OnestopSolutionServices for all senior citizen needs Can be few solutions for such challenges


Mohit Sadh Just go ther for some time n check, if it's worth, otherwise come back n live here happily ever after


Aditi Misra Interesting responses! 
I think for me it’ll depend on a lot of things... my health / my finances/ my spouse!


Aseem Chandawarkar On Children
- Kahlil Gibran

Your children are not your children.
They are the sons and daughters of Life's longing for itself.
They come through you but not from you,
And though they are with you yet they belong not to you.

You may give them your love but not your thoughts, 
For they have their own thoughts.
You may house their bodies but not their souls,
For their souls dwell in the house of tomorrow, 
which you cannot visit, not even in your dreams.
You may strive to be like them, 
but seek not to make them like you.
For life goes not backward nor tarries with yesterday.

You are the bows from which your children
as living arrows are sent forth.
The archer sees the mark upon the path of the infinite, 
and He bends you with His might 
that His arrows may go swift and far.
Let your bending in the archer's hand be for gladness;
For even as He loves the arrow that flies, 
so He loves also the bow that is stable.


Umesh Gujjar Better to be in India with our Loved ones, even if one earns less (as compared to foreign earnings)


Niraj Khedkar Yes that action speaks a lot... No senior citizen wants to willingly go in a care home...


Doris Gomes I will go n spent sone time, esp because of my small grand kids...


वरिष्ठ नागरिक सेवा संस्थान It is difficult for parents to shift .

Ashok Maheshwari Never. I am Hindustani and at 80 crossed, I want to spend my allotted time in my own country.


Dileep Lad I will stay in My country. I am proud of my country भारत माता की जय

Adv Vidya Patil Very much right


Puneet Sunita Khurana I'd ask them to F... off!


Bhavdeep Pandya I will go n settle with my children


Amita Rs What about in olden days when people relocated from villages to town in search of better life? How did those older adults feel then when their children left them and the big farming lands behind for city jobs? Only some things have changed but rest of the issues remain same.


CA Hemant Damodar Mehta One has to choose with balanced mind .. to be useful to Society here in India or to spend life with son/daughter abroad depending your physical capacity and health.


We thank all for their views and opinion, this will help us to plan our Future.

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