The 104 health helpline has now launched geriatric services (for senior citizens).
“The geriatric services will have three components – health-related services that will be taken care of by our doctors and paramedics, mental health services that our psychologists and counsellors will deal with, and support in the prevention of abuse, for which we will work with HelpAge India and the district police officers,” said B. Prabhudoss, head, marketing and hospital relations, GVK EMRI, which runs the service launched on Friday.
Loneliness and deterioration of mental health, especially after the loss of a spouse, as well as suicidal tendencies are some of the issues the helpline is expecting to deal with.
When it comes to assistance in the prevention of abuse, the helpline will tie up with the elders’ helpline 1253 as well as the NGO HelpAge India and police at the district level.
“With a growing ageing population, a number of challenges will have to be addressed. We need a system that will support the aged population,” said Mr. Prabhudoss. Its earlier initiatives, including counselling services for students as well as eye donation have been well-received, especially by people in the rural parts of the State, said Mr. Prabhudoss.
Senior citizens present some unique challenges, he added, as there are often cases of forgetfulness when it comes to taking medication and over-dosage. Vision and mobility problems also have to be taken into consideration.
