Senior Citizens leading peaceful and joyful lives in Elder Care Home

Old age, is a phase of life that everyone will eventually encounter. It’s characterized by a myriad of challenges that can range from the physical to the emotional. It is an inescapable reality that as we age, the body and mind both undergo changes. With these changes come varying degrees of vulnerability that may lead to anxieties regarding deteriorating health, psychological well-being, and even financial instability.

The thought of dependency, whether financial or physical, can be a significant source of stress for the elderly. Being financially independent and having the capacity to manage oneself without assistance are cornerstones of adult life. When these capabilities diminish due to age or health conditions, the loss of autonomy can deeply impact one’s self-worth and overall mental well-being.

The absence of a supportive family exacerbates these challenges manifold. Family serves as a bulwark against many of life’s adversities, providing emotional, financial, and sometimes physical support. When an elderly person lacks this familial safety net, the feelings of loneliness, isolation, and abandonment can intensify. Moreover, the unfortunate ones who suffer from incurable diseases or disabilities face an even more gruelling challenge. Chronic pain, loss of mobility, or cognitive decline can lead to a life of persistent suffering. When coupled with limited or no resources for care, their misery knows no bounds.

Therefore, it becomes crucial for society to step in. It is the collective responsibility of communities and governments to ensure that their elderly population, especially those without support, is cared for. This can manifest in the form of elderly care homes, financial aid programs, community initiatives, and healthcare services tailored to their unique needs.

At an individual level, fostering a culture of respect and care for the elderly can make a significant difference. Simple gestures like spending time with an elderly neighbour, volunteering at old age homes, or even just being more patient and understanding can alleviate some of the challenges they face. As a society, it’s essential to remember that how we treat our most vulnerable members reflects our core values.

Hands of Compassion (HOC) is a reputable Non-Governmental Organization, duly registered under the Societies Registration Act of 1956. With an unwavering commitment to enriching the lives of the elderly, HOC runs an Elder Care Home since 19th February 2018. The home is located at H. No: 12-21-33, Krupanilayam, Beside 10th Ward Sachivalayam, Behind the Bus Stand in Prakash Nagar, Narsaraopet, within the Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh.

Our primary goal is to ensure that our elderly residents experience a peaceful and healthful existence. For this, we provide them with comprehensive and free-of-charge basic services from the moment they join our home. Each resident is treated with the utmost respect, love, and care, embodying our core values of compassion and dignity.

Our endeavors have been blessed with the generous support of benefactors from various sectors of society. These philanthropic contributions, both monetary and in-kind, have been instrumental in ensuring that our residents live their golden years with joy and contentment. We remain eternally grateful to our supporters for enabling us to realize our mission and make a lasting impact on the lives of the elderly.

The inception of “Elder Care Home” marked a significant milestone in the domain of senior care. Commencing its operations with four esteemed elderly residents, the establishment was honored to have its inauguration presided over by Sri. K. Jayakumar, the Additional District Judge of Narsaraopet. The event also saw the gracious presence of Mr. Gujjarlapudi Rajini Kanth, the key benefactor for the Home for the Elderly Persons, along with other distinguished stakeholders. The commitment and collective efforts of all involved ensure that Elder Care Home stands as a beacon of support, comfort, and care for the senior community.

Objectives Elder Care Home:

Our primary mission is to uphold the value, dignity, and well-being of our elderly community. We aim to accomplish this through the following strategies:

1. To foster a positive environment that bolsters self-worth and reassures our elderly that they are valuable members of our community.

2. To ensure every elder has access to shelter, nutritious food, appropriate clothing, and comprehensive healthcare.

3. To safeguard the fundamental human right of our elderly to live with respect and honour, free from any form of neglect or abuse.

4. To organize events and sessions that cater to the spiritual well-being of our elderly, promoting peace and contentment.

5. To Collaborate with relevant stakeholders to ensure the continuity and sustainability of elder care services.

6. To launch initiatives aimed at enlightening the broader society on the essential role and significance of elder care services.

7. To offer personalized counselling sessions to address and alleviate any psychological distress experienced by our elderly.

8. To extend counselling services to families, encouraging them to accept, continue providing love, care, and support to their elderly loved ones.

By implementing these strategies, we aim to create a society where our elders feel respected, cared for, and cherished.

Services Offered at the Elder Care Home

1. Nutritional Care:

    We prioritize the provision of high-quality meals tailored to ensure the health and well-being

    of our elderly residents.

2. Medical Services:

Periodical medical check-ups are conducted to monitor and maintain the health of our residents. General medications are supplied to address common ailments. For more complex or chronic conditions, we refer to government and charitable hospitals.

3. Recreational Activities:

   – Maintaining library with general books and daily newspapers.

   – Entertainment options include an audio system and television are made available.

   – Regular cultural events are organized for elderly persons’ enjoyment.

   – We encourage residents to showcase their talents and engage in activities like meditation,

      walking, and gardening to promote holistic well-being.

   – Quarterly excursions provide a change of scenery and social interaction among the elderly

      persons.

4. Counselling Services:

    We offer counselling sessions for our residents to address any psychological or emotional

    needs. Family counselling ensures the continuity of care and bridges the gap between elderly

    persons and their families.

5. Elderly Care Awareness Programs:

    We organize awareness events to advocate for elderly care, highlighting its importance in

    society. Community engagement is promoted by encouraging public visits to our Elder Care

    Home. Our calendar is marked with special observances, including World Elderly Day,

    celebrating the lives and contributions of our elderly community.

6. Spiritual Enrichment:

    Daily spiritual programs are conducted, fostering inner peace and well-being among elderly

    persons.

7. Rituals and Posthumous Services:

    In the unfortunate event of a resident’s demise, families are promptly informed. If there is no

    family response, the Elder Care Home takes responsibility for the dignified completion of

    final rites.

We are dedicated to provide a comprehensive, holistic, and compassionate care environment for the elderly, ensuring their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs are met.

Achievements of Elder Care Home:

The following are the achievements.

1. Outreach & Impact

    Since inception, the Elder Care Home has served a total of 46 elderly persons (26 males and

    20 females) from Guntur and surrounding districts. At present, 10 elderly persons are

    residing in the home.

3. Health & Wellness

    – Partnering with Sankar Eye Hospital, Kakani, we successfully conducted cataract surgeries

      for six residents.

    – Provided three elderly persons with hearing treatment and hearing-impaired equipment.

    – Nine of our residents returned to their families and later passed away due to severe

      health complications or advanced age.

    – During the COVID-19 pandemic, rigorous precautions were implemented resulting in zero

      infections among our residents. Additionally, all residents were vaccinated against the

      virus.

4. Family & Reintegration

    Comprehensive counselling was provided to families, facilitated the return of four

    elderly persons to their homes and loved ones.

5. Recreational Activities

    – Organizing regular visits by college students who engage with our residents through

      bonding activities and cultural programs, boosting their morale and well-being.

    – Orchestrated sightseeing tours to promote leisure and recreation among the elderly.

6. Welfare Initiatives

    – Facilitated three elderly persons to get ration cards.

    – Facilitated six elderly persons to get pension.

    – Distributing clothing to all residents, ensuring their comfort and dignity.

7. Comprehensive Care Model

    – Beyond the highlighted achievements, Elder Care Home is steadfast in its commitment to

       provide holistic services. This encompasses shelter, nutrition, healthcare, recreational

       activities, counselling, legal support, and additional services based on individual needs.

We aim to continue evolving our services, ensuring every elderly person of the Elder Care Home experiences warmth, care, and the best possible quality of life.