Geriatric Care

Services Provided by Multi-Service Centers for the Elderly

• Day Care:
  Day care centers provide basic facilities like nutritious food and safe drinking water.
• Educational Opportunities:
  Some multi-service centers also provide learning and educational opportunities.
• Entertainment Opportunities:
  They also organize entertainment opportunities like recreation and cultural programs.
• Healthcare/Medical Support:
  Multi-service centers provide regular health check-ups and medical support.
• Companionship:
  They provide companionship, and this helps to combat social isolation and loneliness.
• Counselling Services:
  They provide counselling services to the elderly.

Challenges Faced by the Elderly

• Deteriorating Health and Illness:
  The elderly may face issues due to their deteriorating health, and various ailments which impact their daily lives. Their physiological reserves also decline due to ageing.
• Ageing and Weakened Defense Mechanisms:
  As the body ages, defense mechanisms weaken, leading to disabilities such as low vision, hearing loss, and loss of mobility.
• Loneliness, Isolation and Dependence:
  Loneliness, social isolation, and dependence on others can lead to depression and anxiety.
• Financial Dependence:
  Elderly people are often financially dependent on others, and lack of proper financial support.
• Lack of Support:
  Lack of support from children or misbehavior from family members is another important factor which makes the elderly vulnerable.
• Fragmentation of Families:
  The breakup of the traditional family structure also makes the elderly more vulnerable, as they can no longer rely on extended family for support.
• Inability to Care for Oneself:
  Due to failing health, elderly people may find it difficult to care for their own needs.

National Policy for Older Persons

The Government of India formulated the National Policy for Older Persons in 1999, which highlights the need for support for the elderly.