Daijiworld Media Network – Mangalore (KM/SM)
Pics - Ganesh S Perla
Mangalore, Oct 22: A day-long symposium on “Principals of Generic Rehabilitation” was organized by the department of Physiotherapy, Father Muller Medical College (FMMC), in the Conference Hall, FMMC here on Monday October 22.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Olinda Pereira, formal principal of Roshni Nilaya and guest of honour said that recent surveys and studies have revealed that 60% of the Indian population will be of senior citizens in the near future.
But the ground reality is that India has not equipped herself to give warmth and care to the elderly population, lamented Dr Olinda.
Toll-free help line has been started to help senior citizens, she said. They can even seek the help of police if they need. Police intervention can solve their problems. This helps them to a great extent whenever they are in danger, she added.
“Age is a matter of concern but not a problem. Senior citizens need care and concern both physically and psychologically, she informed, expressing hope that physiotherapy could be a solution to problems faced by those who are prone to emotional insecurity.
Giving her own example, she stated that keeping oneself busy may help to forget loneliness and insecurity. These are very common problems which may give a wrong impression to the elderly that they are most neglected and forgotten persons.
The Indian population, when compared to the west, is not giving importance to senior citizens in terms of infrastructure. It is made mandatory in the west that all buildings and public toilets should have railings. Indians need to think in this regard, said Fr Patrick Rodrigues, director, FMMC in his presidential address.
E Keshav Bhat wished all the best to the symposium in his inaugural address.
Kangararaj R, course coordinator welcomed the gathering and Santosh Kurian, organizing secretary proposed the vote of thanks.
Fr Denis D'Sa, administrator, FMMC and Dr B Sanjeeva Rai, dean, FMMC were present during the occasion.