Media Release
Mangaluru, Mar 8: ‘Diploma in Gerontology’ is a pioneer programme at St Aloysius College marked a significant milestone, coinciding with the institution's elevation to university status. Further batches are to be held soon and also in St Agnes possibly.
This inaugural offering delved into the multifaceted realm of aging, exploring biological, psychological, and social dimensions of the elderly experience. On completion of the course 22 trained enthusiasts have stepped out to serve this urgent and vital cause. Gerontology is the study of the social, cultural, psychological, cognitive, and biological aspects of aging. The field is distinguished from geriatrics, which is the branch of medicine that specializes in the treatment of existing disease in older adults. Gerontologists include researchers and practitioners in the fields of biology, nursing, medicine, criminology, dentistry, social work, physical and occupational therapy, psychology, psychiatry, sociology, economics, political science, architecture, geography, pharmacy, public health, housing, and anthropology. Difference of gerontology from geriatrics is noteworthy.
Profound discussions with distinguished resource persons on the challenges of caregiving and also with primary caregivers’ experiences candidly. Field visits to contrasting aged care facilities, mainly 'Pashant Nivas', a home for the destitute in the city, and 'Holy Rosary Home for Senior Citizens', a high-end facility catering to well off elderly, allowing students to grasp diverse needs and care approaches. The students engaged in rigorous academic endeavours, completing two assignments and undergoing evaluatory assessments. The true essence of the programme lay in the exploration of sensitive subjects, prompting profound reflection among participants. This pioneer batch in our city, recognises the potential of education and awareness to affect future positive change in gerontological planning and care.
St Aloysius College provided not just a platform but also instilled the confidence to venture into uncharted territory and make a meaningful difference. Gratitude goes to key dignitaries for solid source of support; and HOD Dr Shwetha Rasquinha for guidance and coordination. The diploma in gerontology programme culminated as a resounding success.
It needs to be noted that the organizer and brain behind this venture is Kripanjali Tellis Nayak of Mangaluru. A few words from Kripanjali, “The expertise, guidance, commitment of this course at Aloysius University, empowers us to delve deeper into this field and to aspire towards making a meaningful difference in the lives of the elderly. As we reflect on one’s experiences and insights gained, we are inspired to continue our exploration and advocacy for improved geriatric care and societal support systems. Armed with knowledge, compassion, and a sense of purpose, we are committed to championing the well-being and dignity of the elderly in our communities. In closing, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to all who have been a part of this journey and look forward to applying our learning to create positive change in the field of gerontology. As we step forward into the future, let us carry with us the wisdom gained and the noble aspiration to make a difference in the lives of one’s aging population.”
On February 29, an official valedictory ceremony was held, graced by the presence of rector Fr Melwin Pinto, principal Fr Praveen Martis, Dr Charles V Furtado, Dr Shwetha Rasquinha, and other dignitaries. This ceremony served as a fitting conclusion to the course; certificates of course completion was distributed, marking the successful culmination of the programme.
In conclusion, the journey through the diploma in gerontology program at St Aloysius College has been transformative, marking a significant milestone in our pursuit of understanding and addressing the complexities of age care. Through insightful lectures, engaging discussions, and practical field visits, we have gained a comprehensive understanding of the biological, psychological, and social dimensions of aging, as well as the challenges and opportunities in gerontological care. The expertise, guidance, aids to step forward into the future, with wisdom gained and the noble aspiration to make a difference in the lives of the aging population in and around Mangaluru.