Hyderabad:Loneliness, depression, physical ailments and family responsibilities. Apart from these problems, the new threat of digital scams were the focus of an event held here on Thursday to mark International Day of Older Persons.
Gurajada Shobha Perindevi, the president of Telangana Stree Seva Samstha, pointed to social isolation as a major problem, stating, "People of old age may often feel left out, but this event made us so happy as it connected many people from our age group. Meeting our age group people felt so energetic and rejuvenating.”
“Due to social isolation, people of old age may often feel left out, but this event made us so happy as it connected many people from our age group,” she said.
On digital frauds targeting senior citizens, many of whom are familiar with new technology or find it difficult to handle new-age tools, Perindevi said: "Younger generations could play a crucial role by educating their parents and grandparents on how to use technology safely and effectively. We all are willing to learn if our younger generations can help us teach patiently and effectively.”
She noted that in today's generation, peer groups connect more, knowing about each other’s whereabouts rather than the children looking after their parents.
Over 600 senior citizens attended the International Day of Older Persons' celebrations held at Hari Hara Kala Bhavan, Secunderabad on Thursday. The event, organised by the Union ministry of social justice and empowerment, in collaboration with the Heritage Foundation, focused on the theme ‘Ageing with Dignity: The importance of strengthening care and support systems for older persons’.
“Ageing is not just about growing older, it's about growing richer in experiences, memories, and grace,” stated K.R. Gangadharan, founder of the Heritage Group.
The participants walked from Mahbub College in Secunderabad to Hari Hara Kala Bhavan, cheered on by schoolchildren.
Participants spoke of the importance of peer support networks due to the loneliness, depression, physical ailments, and family responsibilities they experience.
Krishna Swamy from the Senior Citizen Association, Dammaiguda, stressed the increasing pressure on families and the growing importance of peer support networks. "We deal with everyday family pressures, but today many senior citizen organizations coming together felt so happy. Such events are a platform for us to connect with our age groups and share many things," he said.
Dr G. Nageswara Rao, vice-president of GHMC’s Aasara central project committee, outlined the government's initiatives to support senior citizens, including a 30 per cent discount on RTC fares and the planned construction of ten multidisciplinary centres in Hyderabad. These centres are envisioned as hubs for health, recreation, and social engagement, aiming to enhance the quality of life for the elderly.
