Uttarakhand Minister Rekha Arya Engages with Elderly Residents in Dehradun, Announces Support Initiatives
In a heartfelt outreach effort, Uttarakhand's Minister for Women Empowerment and Child Development, Rekha Arya, conducted a visit to Prem Dham and Maa Gauri old age homes in Dehradun on Thursday. During her time there, she engaged in meaningful conversations with the residents, attentively listening to their daily struggles, health concerns, and challenges related to family support systems.
Understanding the Plight of Elderly Women
Arya emphasized that the primary objective of her visit was to gain a deeper insight into the circumstances that compel elderly women to seek refuge in such facilities. She highlighted key factors including family neglect and pervasive social isolation, which often force them into these care homes. The minister expressed a strong commitment to providing emotional support and addressing these underlying issues through proactive measures.
She revealed that she has issued directives to officials to develop a comprehensive policy focused on enhancing social inclusion for the elderly, with a special emphasis on women. This policy aims to cater to both their physical and emotional well-being, ensuring a more supportive environment.
Residents Voice Their Concerns
During the interactions, several elderly women shared their personal experiences, shedding light on critical issues. They spoke about feelings of social isolation, inadequate family support, and difficulties in accessing timely medical care. Many attributed their move to care homes to age-related health problems, unreliable transportation options, and a lack of companionship, which made independent living increasingly challenging.
Rama Devi, one of the residents, suggested that establishing community centers at the village level could foster regular gatherings, interactions, and mutual support among elderly individuals. Another resident reflected on how children, as they grow older and become engrossed in their own lives, often leave parents feeling lonely and neglected, sometimes wishing they would never grow up.
The emotional toll was palpable as Usha Devi recounted her story of losing her elder son, which left her without family support. Meanwhile, retired teacher Beena Edwards acknowledged the availability of basic facilities at the care home but stressed the importance of regular engagement with officials and visitors to help residents voice their concerns and feel genuinely heard.
Moving Forward with Compassionate Governance
This visit underscores the Uttarakhand government's dedication to addressing the vulnerabilities faced by elderly women in society. By prioritizing their needs through targeted policies and ongoing dialogue, Minister Arya aims to create a more inclusive and supportive framework that empowers this demographic to live with dignity and connection.
