JOIN USAllaying the fears of senior citizens
Earlier this month, an elderly couple was found murdered in JP Nagar 1st phase. In yet another case, a 60-year-old woman was bludgeoned to death in her house.
There have also been several cases of abuse, assault or murder of elderly people in the City.
These reports have definitely sent a chill down many spines. Once known as the pensioner’s paradise, the City, many senior citizens say, is no longer what it used to be. It also makes one wonder how safe the senior citizens are here.
Since most of the attacks happened on senior citizens, who were living on their own, there is an urgent need for elderly people to be counselled on what they can do to protect themselves.
Metrolife asks some senior citizens in the City on the measures they have taken to protect themselves.
With the tradition of children and grandchildren caring for the elderly almost disappearing, many elderly people are forced to live alone and fend for themselves.
Hence it is very important to be a part of a social group or group activities to build a support system. Jayanth, a 65-year-old retired professional, says that he has found his support system in his group of friends, who live close by.
“We head out for a walk in the morning and share everything together. It is very important to have people around you,” he adds.
While walking on the roads alone, Shailaja, a 60-year-old homemaker, says that she makes sure that she carry an umbrella or pepper spray in her purse. “I also ensure that I keep someone informed on where I am going.
It’s hard to depend on our children to take us wherever we go but at least by keeping them informed, there is a sense of safety,” she adds.
When it comes to safety precautions inside one’s house, many senior citizens say that they have found it helpful to install an iron grill door at their house.
A spokesperson from a popular club for senior citizens in Jayanagar, says, “One of the most important tips we give our members is not to open the door for strangers, be it the delivery boy, salesperson or anyone.”
Agrees Radha Krishna, a homemaker, who lives with her family in Koramangala. “Most of the days, I am alone at home.
So I always ensure that the grill door is locked all the time. Also, if there is anyone from the post office or any other department, I either check their ID card and also verify with the department concerned over the phone,” she adds.
“There is a sense of isolation among elders. Probably that is why they need to be counselled. If they reach out in the right way, they can also be active members of society. As a senior citizen, they must never feel alone.
Being part of big social groups, clubs or keeping in touch with the neighbours will come in handy,” explains Mythili, a psychologist.