Elders seek geriatric ward in GH

VELLORE: A group of senior citizens who participated in an event to mark the International Day of Aged Persons, organised by the District Social Welfare(DSW)Department here on Friday, has urged the state government to start geriatric facility in all the government hospitals to focus on the health needs of aged persons.For the first time, the district administration had organised a public event by inviting aged persons in the group of 50 to 60 years and 61 to 70 years from across the district and conducted various programmes for them.The participants sought separate lane for aged persons in all roads for walking and cycling. Some of them also suggested introduction of special bus services in all the towns and cities.R Chandrasekaran, president of Udavum Ullangal, an NGO,while speaking on the occasion underlined the need for a special day care centre for aged persons across the state where they could spend their free time interacting with others.He wanted the 108 ambulance services to cover health needs of aged persons andstatus report of aged persons to be published by the district/state administration every year. The occasion also was used to honour 86-year old Raju, an ex-serviceman who has been keeping himself fit by cycling his way out, which was highlighted by Express recently. Collector S Nagarajan, the chief guest, gave away prizes to winners of the various competitions. Nagarajan appealed to the youngsters to take care of their parents and elders at home. He announced that the district would soon have a combined home for aged and children. A health camp was also organised by the public health department led by its deputy director Dr Somasundaram. Tips on physiotherapy were also provided. District Social Welfare Officer Gomathy said,  of the 57 complaints under the Senior Citizens Act received from aged persons seeking help, support and assistance from across the district this year, 39 cases have been settled. While 25 families after counselling had reconciled, seven agreed to provide monetary assistance, two cases were referred for police action and another two for court intervention. Enquiries with the remaining complaints were on, she added.