KOCHI: Along with age comes a multitude of problems. Getting old, for some, means becoming lonely. A day long fellowship can go a long way to give a silver lining to the somber tint to the twilight of their lives. Some ‘Pakalveeds’ (day homes) in the city contradict the common notion that they are places to sit back and rest. They prove that being productive and creative are a part and parcel of the whole deal.
Such a home was inaugurated by Bishop Joseph Puthenveettil along with Kaarunya Varsham at St Jude’s Church, Karanakodam, near Thammanam the other day.
So what is special about this home? At this ‘pakalveed’ (day home) everything is free be it the day care, medical check up or anything done for the elderly. Ask St Jude Church Karanakodam why such a home has been set instead of the usual kind, they say that the aim is to enhance the lives of the elderly and also ensure that they get proper medical care. We provide free food along with other facilities.
There is something more special about the home. “Doors are open to senior citizens belonging to any caste or creed. Those who seek to spend time, engage in activities of their interests, have the companionship of people of similar age, indulge in mental alertness activities, cultivate spiritual growth and much more are very welcome here,” says V S John, parish trustee of St Jude’s Church.
A normal day begins at 9 in the morning with a cup of coffee and biscuits. Thereafter, the 12 inmates immerse themselves in simple games such as caroms, entertainment activities such as watching television and so on. Meals and other supplies are sponsored by local Kudumbashree units and church attendees. “The main aim is to provide love, and warmth to those parents who feel lonely in the working families and they can spend their time here without their getting misplaced from their homes,” says Fr Sebastian, the vicar at St Jude’s Church, Karanakodam.
Specialties make the ‘pakalveedu’ at Ayyappankav, near Kacherippady stand out as well. The inmates here meet and participate in various current affairs discussions on every Thursday and also take measures to resolve social problems. “Last week, we donated supplies for the Chennai flood relief through the Collector. We also publish a monthly magazine which helps our members to express their ideas. We are in twilight of our lives but that does not make us feel unproductive,” says V Krishnan Nair, former sub inspector who is a member of the Pakalveedu at Ayyapankaavu.
“Retirement does not have to mean sitting idle. Places like pakalveedu helps senior citizens to have social interactions and mental stimulation. It is the responsibility of the community to provide a space for the elderly to enhance their lives and make it more fruitful,” he adds.