Pics: Prakash Samaga
Daijiworld Media Network—Mangalore (PS/CN)
Mangalore, Dec 11: The People Association for Geriatric Empowerment (PAGE) celebrated ‘Human Rights Day’ at Roshni Nilaya, School of Social Work, on Saturday December 10 by holding a discussion on issues concerning human rights and senior citizens’ rights.
Ramesh Rao, president of federation of senior citizens, speaking on the topic ‘Existing Situation of the Elderly’, said that currently 9 percent of the nation’s population is made of elders and by 2020 this will be up to 20 percent and hence, the government needs to initiate public benefit schemes with this in mind.
“Special health care units exclusively for treating the elderly are not available in many hospitals. High cost of medicine for the elderly is also a matter of concern; sufferers are more in rural areas, opening of old age homes in rural areas is also important. Delay in judgments of cases involving senior citizens and property protection need to be seen to,” he said.
Rao said that 80 percent of the women adjusted themselves after their spouse’s demise, but men find it difficult to adjust after their wife’s death and suffer. “Only 20 percent of men are an exception to this scenario and there is need for formation of social groups,” he said.
“Bridging the generation gap is very important, elders should take the first step in this regard. Convincing factor is the requisite approach and elders need to inculcate this to reduce the generation gap or conflict,” he asserted.
“It is unfortunate that the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act though passed in the year 2007, was not properly implemented,” he pointed out.
Lidwin Lobo, co-ordinator of services, Vishwas Trust for the Elderly, spoke on ‘Psycho – Social and Economic Condition of the Elderly’. Dr Prasanna Mitra spoke on ‘Geriatrics Today’.
Dr L N Bhat, assistant professor, department of Community Medicine, also spoke. Dr Prabbha Adhikari, professor of medicine, KMC, welcomed. Dr Anusuya delivered the vote of thanks.