Good Health and Wellbeing among Aged and Vulnerable Women

SARVAM conducted an awareness programme on good health and well-being for vulnerable older women in 12 villages where they play an active role.  The Aurosakhis reached out to 350 aged and vulnerable women through this programme.

Older people are more likely to develop mental disorders, neurological disorders, substance use disorders, diabetes, hearing loss, and osteoarthritis.  These age-related health issues can significantly reduce their quality of life and financially burden them and their families.

It is essential to prioritize preventative health care for older adults to reduce the risk of developing these conditions.  There are life stressors that affect everyone at some point in their lives.  Still, older people may face more common stresses, and it is vital to recognize these stressors and seek support.  Utilizing social connections, counselling, and mental health services can help reduce the impact of life stressors on an individual’s psychological and physical health.

Aurosakhis focused their awareness programme on 350 elderly women in 15 batches.  It started with interaction with the participants.  Then the Aurosakhis spoke on how aged women can take care of themselves by making a few changes.  They mentioned that eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep are all critical components of a healthy lifestyle for older people.

They also discussed the importance of proper nutrition and the need for regular medical check-ups.  The importance of laughing, talking with the neighbours, keeping a pet, visiting temples or going to new places, and meditating were stressed.  The Aurosakhis insisted on following these simple practices as it is believed that these factors help women refresh.  Food habits and small stretching exercises, pranayama are some other stress busters mentioned by the Aurosakhis to the aged women.

Practical sessions were conducted for the women to quickly understand and follow them regularly.

Many women said it was their first time in life to do such a thing in an open space.  The exercise changed their outlook on physical activity and made them appreciate life’s little things.  They were grateful for the experience and soon began to look forward to the daily exercise sessions.  Aurosakhis also provided information on the nearest healthcare facilities and ways to access them.  Masks and nutritional drinks were given to the participants at the end of the programme.