16 Jun 2009
BANGALORE: The abuse of elderly people, mostly at home by their family or caretakers, is not confined to Third World countries __ it's a global problem. The attempt to attain longevity through medical technologyhas had a counter-effect __ physical and psychological problems.
At the `World Elders Abuse Prevention Day' on Monday, organized by Nightingalres Medical Trust, Lokayukta Justice N Santosh Hegde said periodic counselling for both elders and their children is necessary to prevent abuse.
The existing helpline -- 1090 -- for elders who need assistance, has solved over 6,000 cases of abuse and domestic issues.
As per law, elderly parents are entitled to get minimum maintenance and care from their children, whether they bequeath property or not. Justice Hegde said although there's a law to this effect, ``it's not known among the elderly and their children. There are guardianship courts that look into the matter''.
`Youths should change attitude'
Justice Hegde felt a change in attitude among youths is necessary. "Individuals look up to society for help. But what if society itself needs help of the police or government? Should young people solve this problem by helping their elders instead of depending on society all the time?"
Police commissioner Shankar Bidari asked the elderly to keep in touch with their neighbours, find out antecedents of domestic help, not to keep too many valuables at home and to be wary of unregistered financial companies.
"Don't trust any firm that promises high-interest rates and avoid investing in chit funds, which could lead to many people losing their life's savings," Bidari said. He released a pamphlet detailing precautions that the elderly should take.
Members of Nightingales Medical Trust staged skits that highlighted the kinds of abuse and neglect elderly people face at home __ and old-age homes as well.
Call up police for help
Those who need help, can call 1090 between 8 am and 7 pm. They can also register their BSNL landline number with the police. In case of trouble, the elderly can lift the phone and keep the receiver open for 20 seconds, after which the police control room will be alerted immediately.
The abuse of elderly people, mostly at home by their family or caretakers, is not confined to Third World countries __ it's a global problem. The attempt to attain longevity through medical technologyhas had a counter-effect __ physical and psychological problems.
Abridged
SOURCE: Times of India
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