India is an old country which has venerated its seniors. But the scene is rapidly changing. Among the low income groups, close to 50 million senior citizens cannot afford even two square meals a day. BCPT's day care centres provide emotional and social support, medical assistance, recreational programs, legal awareness and health & nutrition support to an average of 50 elders per centre. Currently BCPT partners 13 centres and aims to include 5 more centres in the next financial year.
India has a rapidly aging population with very few public services for the elderly. The need for a double income, small homes and the nuclear family system have all played a role in senior citizens being neglected . This adds to age related issues of health, loneliness, dementia and basic support. Many are ill treated and sometimes abandoned by their families. There are no concrete programs at the state or central level that address these issues.
A centre provides a safe and secure space for senior citizens to go to for solving their issues. The elderly are given care, medical assistance, emotional support, aid & advice and a space where they meet others in similar situations. The centre also acts as an outlet for senior citizens to spend time and indulge in recreation activities, outings and gatherings. Not only does this give them emotional support but also has a positive impact on their mental and physical well being.
This project will positively impact the lives of 250 neglected senior citizens by providing various services. Supporting such day care centres in the future will create a healthier senior citizen community in a specific area. Such a program will create more awareness within the community on issues faced by senior citizens and how to tackle them. Citizens can become more sensitized to the needs of the elderly. This can also translate into government schemes focusing on this sector.
