Arya visits old age homes, assures policy for elderly women

Dehradun: Uttarakhand women empowerment and child development minister Rekha Arya visited Prem Dham and Maa Gauri old age homes in Dehradun on Thursday, where she interacted with residents and listened to their concerns about daily life, health and family support.Arya said the visit was aimed at understanding the circumstances that lead elderly women to stay in such facilities, including family neglect and social isolation, and to offer them emotional support. She said she had directed officials to formulate a policy focused on social inclusion of the elderly, particularly women, keeping in mind their physical and emotional needs.Arya spoke to several elderly women, who raised issues of social isolation, limited family support and difficulty in accessing timely medical care. Some said age-related health problems, lack of reliable transport and absence of companionship had made independent living difficult, forcing them to move into care homes.Rama Devi said, "Centres at the village level would help elderly people come together regularly, interact and support one another." Another resident said that, as children grow older, they often become occupied with their own lives, leaving parents feeling lonely. She added that at times she feels children should never grow up Usha Devi became emotional while recounting that after the death of her elder son, she had no one in the family to support her. Retired teacher Beena Edwards said that while basic facilities are available at the care home, regular interaction with officials and visitors would help residents express their concerns and feel heard.