Even in societies, isolation in elders can happen when they do not have contact with people. Whatever one’s age, one can enjoy pastimes that make one laugh. In March, Romi Chopra, Shalini Mathur and Malini Menon took the initiative to bring together the elderly living in Imperial Court & Kalypso Court (ITKT) on one platform to interact.
It was decided to have get-togethers at the end of every month where seniors’ birthdays falling in the month would be celebrated together. A Google form, designed to get information of senior citizens and to understand their needs for activities etc, has helped in increasing the Circle.
After three get-togethers, the Senior Citizens Circle has almost 100 members. Its objective is to help achieve the following ‘NOT OLD’ aspects –
1. Meet New People – Provide opportunities to cultivate relationships with people who share similar experiences
2. On Their Own – Increase touchpoints amongst the empty nesters by engaging them more. Facilitate excursions, games in Clubs, etc.
3. Talent Sharing – Create opportunities to share talent with younger residents
4. Supportive Environment – Offer a chance to support and be supported by other older adults with similar experiences. Develop a system where volunteers call on residents over the age of 71 years.
5. Life Quality & Improved Health – Engage in activities for a fulfilling life. Develop a system, in collaboration with nearby hospital, to provide emergency health care services, injections, etc. Motivate resident doctors to volunteer as first responder.
6. Digital Awareness – Onboard & handhold to digital platforms
