Vriddha Mitra

The ‘Vriddha Mitra’ project, a joint initiative by Vanchit Vikas and the Society of Community Health Oriented Operational Links (Schools). It is dedicated to serving individuals aged 60 and above who are need of assistance. Operating in Pune’s Kasba-Vishrambagwada and Bibvewadi clusters, the project has engaged with 4,000 elderly individuals at their homes throughout the year 2023-2024. The primary objective is to assess and address the physical, mental, and social needs of the elderly, ultimately help enhancing their overall quality of life. Here are the key components of the work undertaken in the ‘Vriddha Mitra’ project:

A. Health-related:

1. High Intensity: Catering to those experiencing severe physical illnesses, mental health issues, or individuals who are bedridden.
2. Mid Intensity: Addressing illnesses that are not severe, such as hypertension, diabetes, or tuberculosis. Providing health equipment to support those without alternative sources of income.
3. Low Intensity: Focusing on individuals over 60 with minor illnesses and no significant challenges in family and social relationships.

B. Community-Based System:

1. Self-Identification: Encouraging older individuals to self-identify based on age, health conditions, and changing circumstances.
2. Family Counselling: Engaging with family members through counselling sessions.
3. Surroundings Influence: Addressing direct and indirect influences on the behaviour of elderly individuals through counselling.

C. Basic Service Delivery System:

1. Home Visit: Conducting home visits to understand the living conditions of the elderly and their family members.
2. Virtual OPD: Providing virtual OPD services near old age homes with specialist medical officers for necessary examinations.
3. Shibir (Camp): Organizing camps to facilitate obtaining various certificates for health and government schemes.
4. Health Camp: Conducting camps focusing on eye, dental, bone health, and other relevant areas.
5. Assistive Devices: Supplying donated health assistive devices to economically disadvantaged elderly individuals.
6. Diet: Offering food, either in the form of prepared meals or grains, to destitute and unaccompanied elderly individuals.
7. Referral Service: Assisting senior citizens by leveraging support from other social organizations.

The comprehensive approach of the ‘Vriddha Mitra’ project ensures a holistic response to the diverse needs of the elderly population, emphasizing their well-being and overall welfare. The bonds with the elders in the community are very motivating for our karyakartas.