The growth of the aged population which is either dependent on the young or unemployed or working for food during the evening years of their life is a challenge to the social security systems in India. Unlike in other countries, elders in India are left to fend for themselves. For daily wage earners or low income groups, meeting daily requirements itself is a challenge, let alone saving for their sunset years.

Lack or absence of financial independence creates a stressful life and invites problems including physical and mental health issues. For instance, domestic problems in an extended family system can worsen the problems of a financially-destitute senior citizen. Furthermore, if the children are struggling in a similar state of poverty, the senior citizen gets tagged as being an added burden on the family.

Loneliness is the other constant worry that accompanies elders with financial problems. Elders long for companionship with other like-minded elders who can understand their situation and with whom they can confide in. The need for belongingness is significantly seen in these elders.

WHAT WE DO:  Sandhya Kirana is a noble initiative by Nightingales Medical Trust in collaboration with the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (City Corporation) to rehabilitate elders who are economically challenged.

A day care centre for the elderly from the lower socio-economic strata, the primary focus is to help elders earn an income and live a life of dignity with access to adequate health care. The highlight of the centre is the strong emotional attachment that the elders develop amongst them.

Nightingales Sandhya Kirana at Shanthigar currently has more than 50 elderly attending the centre on a daily basis.

The Centre also runs a Geriatric clinic to provide basic medical care to the poor and downtrodden. 

All services provided here are free of cost.