BENGALURU: The biggest concern for a majority of the elderly is not their physical health, but the need for a healthy social life.
Nidhi Chawla, co-founder of Silver Talkies — an information and engagement platform for older adults — said most youngsters felt the physical health of their ageing parents was a matter of concern, while the latter saw the lack of an active social life as a bigger issue.
“There is a huge disparity in understanding the needs of seniors. Most elders living alone find their social interactions poor and their concerns include lack of gainful re-employment and financial independence,” she said.
Chawla was speaking during an AMA (Ask Me Anything) session organised by Silver Talkies recently. The session on ‘Ageing and changes — Things you need to know about your ageing parents,’ was the first in a series where experts take queries from children and caregivers of elders regarding their ageing parents.
Silver Talkies was founded by Chawla and Reshmi Chakraborty after they observed their own elderly, retired parents at home and their need for engaging interactions. “Silver Talkies is an exclusive platform for people who are over 55 years old, with a mission of active ageing for older citizens. Here, they can become members of a vibrant community of older adults like themselves and bond over common interests,” she said.
Several queries from participants at the session reflected how the elderly craved for a healthy social life. The concerns shared included how aged parents complained of feeling lonely, neglected and felt a huge void after losing their partners.
Dr Arvind Kasthuri, chief of medical services at St John’s Medical College, guest expert at the session, said mental health problems are also matters of concern among the elderly.
“Depression among the elderly must be evaluated before it’s treated. When depression hampers their ability to function normally, it must be addressed immediately,” he said, adding that psychotherapy and speaking with them to understand what is leading to depression are vital to treating it. Dr Kasthuri said caregivers looking after elders suffering from BP can consider first-aid techniques such as helping the person lie down, loosening their clothes, and keeping them calm. “The room must be ventilated; one must reassure them rather than create an air of panic,” he said.
