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

How to Connect with your Elders

We live in 21st century where Change is fast and constant, there is so much happening in our life and its difficult to keep the pace and take everyone along. New Development, urge to grow, explore new things and stay ahead from all; is not only taking toll on our mental and physical health but also on our relationship. In all this, fast 'vertical growth' of our life we unknowingly leave behind some and the gap between generations is growing. While we move ahead we forget basic ethics of life which can keep bond between families and humans intact. In this life journey our Elders at home and elders in our life suffer most and they live life in isolation and loneliness. Our Elder deserve Respect and they need us, they need youth to connect with them. Different generations coming together will not only help our human development and keep family together but it will also let our Elders know that we value them, we care for them, we respect them. 

Don't Leave Your Elders Behind 

With our Silver Innings experiences and wonderful article by 'Wits End Parenting and Hunter Rising' we have found out some basic ways, Tips; which will help you to start the conversation and connect to your Elders and these meaningful ways will help to build wonderful relationship with your elders. Our mission is to #LeaveNoOneBehind .

Tip 1 : Give them a Call, it can be either audio call or video call and message them when ever you have time. It might be not possible to visit them, but hearing your voice or seeing you, will make them feel good and they will appreciate it. 

Tip 2 : Whenever possible visit them it can be surprise visit. Plan a visit according to their daily routine, seeing you in person and that face to face chat will boost their well-being. 

Tip 3: Elders like when someone greets them, shake hand, giving hug or say Namaste. Talk to them in normal tone, talk slow and in simple language; remember happy face makes things better; communication is important for any relationship.  

 Tip 4: Elders love when we seek their Advice. They are rich source of experience, they have knowledge, they have lived the life of ups and down. You can seek their advice on job, relationship, happy life and issues you are not clear about, elder like to be heard  and let them know you appreciate their advice.  

Tip 5: Everyone of us has a story and our Elders have many stories to be told. They love to talk about their life, their job, their travel, their friendship, their family moments, their struggle; give them ears and they will love you.  

Tip 6: Elders like when you give them compliment and when you admire them; tell them that they have made good contribution to family, they have made positive contribution to you and people around.  Appreciate them. 

Tip 7: Find out if your Elder or some Elder you know is in difficulty, offer them Help, Ask them if they need help in medication, grocery, utility payments, activity of daily living; this will help them to feel that they are not alone.   

Tip 8: There is nothing in this world better then enjoying meal together; sitting down and having tea, coffee, snack or meal together is excellent way of  socializing and bonding.  Have a 'Meal Date' with Elder and make that small meal chat, its Friendship between generation.  

Tip 9: We all love Celebration, whether its festivals, match, win or our special days, birthdays. Celebrate these Special days with your elders, either at home, planned holiday or hotels. Let them know they are not Forgotten. 

Tip 10: Due to ageing, ours Elders have specific needs, it can be while sleeping, seating; make them comfortable, be gentle to them, understand them and ask them if they need anything.   

Tip 11: It is always better to make person independent and not be over protective, Elders will need space, let them do things till they can. Make things easier for them. 

Tip 12: If you don't have your home nearby or your elder staying near you, its nice to reach out to elders in community, society, elder home, nursing homes, assisted living, dementia home, adult day care. Visit once a week or when ever you have time and spending meaningful time with elders through activities, events, picnics, recreation, entertainment; will only add life to years of these elders.  

At Silver Innings since 2008 we are working towards creating Elder and Dementia Friendly World where Ageing becomes a Positive and Rewarding Experience.

Creative by Gayatri Patel - GGrafix360

Concept by #SilverInnings 

Assisted living Home good option for Age care

Assisted living is a way of life that is suited to those who need assistance with the activities of daily living. It is a good option for older adults and specially person with dementia, Alzheimer and Parkinson, who need assistance with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, cooking and meal preparation. They also need 24 hour monitoring of their health because of their age and the fact that they might have physical limitations.

Older adults can live in assisted living facilities if they have the ability to meet their personal needs and there are no concerns about their safety or welfare. If you are considering moving into an assisted living facility it is important to know what aspects of care you will receive there so you feel comfortable with your decision.

Assisted living facilities offer many types of services for its residents. Some offer full-time nursing staff who will help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing and cooking meals for the resident as well as providing companionship during times when they are alone. Other facilities may only offer part-time nurses who will come by every morning or afternoon to help with daily tasks such as preparing meals and cleaning rooms before residents return home at night.

Assisted living homes for older adults are the best option for those who need some help with their daily activities. It is a good option to stay in a home where your needs are taken care of and you have access to facilities that can help you live independently.

Assisted living has many benefits for older adults. They feel safe, secure and comfortable with the help of staff members who are trained professionals. As they get older, these people may have trouble performing certain tasks on their own such as taking a shower or doing laundry. The staff will be there to assist them in performing these tasks which makes them feel at ease.

There are other benefits of assisted living like 24/7 monitoring of health conditions and medication administration which is impossible when you are on your own at home or in nursing homes or hospitals. You will also receive around-the-clock care from trained nurses and caregivers who can help out with personal care, household activities such as shopping, cooking and cleaning among others so that you don't have to worry about anything when you go out or when you're away from home because someone else will be there for you should something happen while you're out.

As we get older, our muscles may weaken, making it more difficult for us to do things like walk up stairs or lift heavy objects. In addition, our bones become more brittle as we age, which can make it harder for us to stay active and healthy. It’s a fact of life that as we age, our ability to perform some of the activities we once did becomes limited and sometimes difficult. This is especially true when it comes to physical activity and exercise.

Silver Innings program 'A1Snehanjali' offers assisted living elder care home near Mumbai, it offers a wide range of holistic services and amenities so residents can live comfortably while still being able to maintain a high quality of life.

Email: silverinnings@gmail.com

Website: http://silverinnings.in/

#Silverinnings #A1Snehanjali #Oldage #ASSISTEDLIVING #Mumbai #Dementia #Eldercarehome #Elderhome 

REPORT ON OLD AGE FACILITIES IN INDIA by Tata Trusts 2018

The study looked at both old age homes and senior living developments in India, built an extensive sample set of 480+ old age homes and 60+ senior living developments in 84 cities, towns and districts cutting across geographies, size, cost, facilities offered, ownership and management.

It projected the sample set to countrywide population data extracted from 2011 census of India, and arrived at an estimate of around 1,150 facilities and the capacity to house around 97,000 elderly residents.

Forecasting likely demand driven by increasing elderly population and change in preferences owing to availability of new products and socio-economic norms, the study pointed towards a crying need to enhance the capacity almost eight to ten-fold over the next decade.

Read more: http: //tatatrusts.org/upload/pdf/report-on-old-age-facilities-in-india.pdf

#SeniorCitizens #Oldage #Oldagehomes #Elders #Ageing #Seniors #SeniorLiving #Ageing #Aging #India #Gerontology 

Unsung ChangeMakers of Dementia- a short film by Abhilasha Tiwari

डिमेंशिया / अल्ज़ाइमर - दिमाग की बैंड बज गई - क्या आपका कोई प्रियजन डिमेंशिया से ग्रस्त है ? देखिये वीरो की कहनी

Unsung ChangeMakers - a short film by Abhilasha Tiwari: Old age can be tough, dementia & Alzheimer's make it tougher but the toughest is to handle a sufferer of dementia with all the smiles.

All I knew about dementia and Alzheimer's was through movies, shows, articles etc and I thought I knew about it really well. But hey, the real scenario showed a completely different picture.

And what was more surprising was the job of the caregivers who are working with them 24*7. and you will .know in this video about the WHY.

Dedicated to all you unsung changemakers.

By Abhilasha Tiwari

Special Thanks to Staff and Family Members at A1 Snehanjali, SilverInning Foundation, Silver innings, Sailesh Mishra, Jenet Faras, Joana Tai, Rita, Jennifer


Music : https://www.bensound.com


aBHi laSHa
Published on Jun 8, 2018






#Dementia #Alzheimer's #India #Ageing #Caregivers #Aging #Changemakers #UnsungHeroes #StoriesofChange #Silverinnings #A1Snehanjali #Mumbai #Oldage #Dementiahome #AssistedLiving #SeniorLiving #AbhilashaTiwari #DementiaCare #RememberME

Improving Quality of Life of People with Dementia

Meaning of quality of life differs from person to person for some it may be playing guitar for another it may be enjoying traveling to exotic locations or spending quality time in front of beach.  Social relationships, cultural values, financial conditions, physical and mental health are the different factors which defines each person’s quality of life. Despite changes and loss of abilities, people with dementia can still find happiness and experience satisfaction.

Picture courtesy: Silver innings 2015

Caregivers who take care of people with dementia should understand that they enjoy some types of activities and also like to do useful things. Caregivers should add creative, meaningful and fun-filled activities and encourage people with dementia to enjoy what they can still do. With appropriate environment, they can lead productive, happier and satisfying life and are less likely to show disturbed behaviour.

Include Fun-Filled & Meaningful Activities

The idea behind including fun-filled activities is to have fun, don’t force them to be perfect or follow complex set of rules. Do not point out mistakes or seize control of what they are doing. Support them, but do not push them. While selecting an activity, ensure that it is something they will like to do. They may enjoy painting and playing games such as Snakes & Ladders or stacking colored rings.

Person with dementia might feel insignificant and useless due to their reduced abilities as compared to their active life in the past. Explore activities that can make them feel positive and good about themselves. They may lose interest in midway while performing any task or perform the activity at slow pace. Do not except them to do it faster or push them to complete the task. The idea behind this activity is to make them feel useful and happy.

Provide a Relaxed & Safe Environment

Each person finds relaxation in different things depending on their character, likes & dislikes. Some may like listening bhajans, while some might like aromatherapy or some may like spending time with pets for their unconditional love.

Use different types of reality orientation techniques, which can help in reducing confusion among the persons with dementia about the time. Have a suitable communication so that you can understand them and they can understand you. Ensure that they should not get frustrated due to any kind of excess help or changing their daily routine. Provide them with exact amount of help they require, so that they feel capable and independent.

To conclude, people with dementia can still find happiness and experience satisfaction, if we include fun-filled & meaningful activities in their daily routine as well as strive to provide a relaxed and safe environment to them.

Ravi Shet is the writer of this article and Co-founder of www.treatum.com, an online healthcare portal connecting patients with right doctors.

ASTU Movie Review from the Eyes of Caregiver

I never realized how close to my own reality a movie could get till I watched the #Marathi #movie #ASTU….as I sat through the 2-hour-5-minute film and watched small and big events of my life playing on screen, I realized that the story writer (and/or many others closely associated with the film) too would have probably lived these moments in her life to be able to portray this disease so accurately. It is true that #dementia / #Alzheimer never affects just one person, it affects the entire family. It changes your life so completely that you can never be the same person again – whether you are the patient or the #caregiver . 

ASTU is actually the narrative of a 24-hour day in the life of Dr.Shastri, who is a person with dementia, and his immediate family and their experiences as he gets lost while trying to follow an elephant through the crowded streets of Pune. The screenplay seamlessly moves in and out of incidents in the past and present as his daughter traces the journey of the discovery of her father having Alzheimer’s disease and the subsequent ways in which the family, and she particularly, has been dealing with it. The delicacy and vulnerability of human relationships when challenged with a situation such as having a person with Alzheimer’s disease in the family is very sensitivity handled in the film. The manner in which Dr.Shastri connects with the mahout’s wife Chanamma is also touching – no relationship, no identity and yet, he places as much faith in her as a small child does in his own mother.

The performances by the entire cast are good, but #IravatiHarshe , #AmrutaSubhash and #MilindSoman deserve special mention. Dr. #MohanAgashe , of course, is stunningly flawless in his portrayal as a person with the dreaded dementia. And hats off to #SumitraBhave and #SunilSukhtankar for attempting to weave a film around this lesser known and oft-misunderstood illness…as a caregiver, my personal thanks for recognising and documenting the angst of a child who sees their parent lose their memory and identity and living through the helplessness of it all.

 By 

Shilpa Bakshi Chandawarkar