To improve the quality of life for elder citizens, a geriatric training centre is on the anvil at the Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Chest Diseases (RGICD).
Speaking on World Elders Day celebrations, Dr Shashidar Buggi, director, RGICD, said, “The state government had announced a geriatric care unit with nearly 30 beds strength for the institute last year. The unit, which would cost Rs 5 crore has been sanctioned in last’s year budget. There is a proposal to begin geriatric training centres which would be exemplary in the country. The centre aims to provide best health care for the elderly.”
“The country is facing a first generation of elderly citizens whose life expectancy has increased due to medical assistance. There is a paucity of trained hands to deal with the needs of the elderly,” Dr Buggi said.
Justice Dr V S Malimath, former chief justice, Karnataka, and chairman, Law Commission said there is a need for extensive support system which will provide the basic amenities to senior citizens