Tamil Nadu   

Policy coming soon to curb elder abuse, says Minister

Photo: S.Thanthoni

MEMORABLE OCCASION: Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Subbulakshmi Jagadeesan honouring senior citizens at the World Elders’ Day celebration in Chennai on Tuesday. V.S. Natarajan, Chairman, SCB (second from left), is in the picture. —

CHENNAI: The Centre will soon announce a policy to curb elder abuse, Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Subbulakshmi Jagadeesan said on Tuesday.

Delivering a special address at the World Elders Day–2007 celebrations organised by the Senior Citizens Bureau here, she said the policy, to be placed before Parliament, would specify the different types of penalties for elder abuse. The condition of the elders in rural areas was more of a challenge to address. “Besides, we have suggested to the State governments to set up welfare centres in every district.”

Honouring bureau members, she said exclusive geriatric wards should be set up in government hospitals throughout the State. She held talks with the Union and Tamil Nadu Health Ministers and expected positive action.

The Minister gave away awards to winners of a competition held for students.

Releasing “Linkage-2007,” a World Elders Day special publication, Ms. Jagadeesan said: “The youngsters have forgotten to live a simple life. There is tension all around to earn more to repay debts. We should teach our children to lead a simple and happy life.”

“Have a hobby or interest that you can spend your time with. This will keep your mind healthy and active. One must not worry about being neglected, because it will cause stress and sorrow,” she said. Bureau chairman V.S. Natarajan said the elders suffered from three major problems: health, family and finance. All elders should have compulsory health insurance, and should be given a free health card.

A committee should be constituted in every district to monitor the functioning of homes for the aged. Besides, compulsory savings for the old age should be started at the village level and part-time jobs offered to deserving elders.

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