Experts Discuss Senior Citizens' Rights and Healthcare at Prabhadevi Event
The struggles of senior citizens, including healthcare access, emotional isolation, and legal challenges, were highlighted at a special August Kranti commemorative programme held at Ravindra Natya Mandir in Prabhadevi on August 14.
Organised and hosted by Kaval Katija, the event brought together doctors, legal experts, writers, and theatre personalities to discuss ways society can better protect the rights, dignity, and emotional well-being of the elderly. The discussions aimed to broaden the focus on ageing beyond medical treatment to encompass legal security, mental health, social inclusion, and purpose.
Chief guest Dr Rajiv Rao, Dean of D.Y. Patil Medical College, emphasised the necessity of empathy in geriatric care. He stated that medical education must train young doctors not only to address physical illnesses but also to understand the emotional and social vulnerabilities affecting elderly patients.
Legal safeguards were another central theme of the event. Supreme Court Advocate-on-Record Tushar M. Khairnar explained the statutory protections available to senior citizens and outlined practical legal steps to secure their rights and assets. The session focused on raising awareness about legal mechanisms, particularly regarding property and family-related disputes.
Addressing mental health, Prof Smita Ghate spoke about building inner resilience and a sense of purpose, distinguishing between living alone and experiencing loneliness. Cancer survivor, writer, and researcher Valmika Ahire shared her experiences of trauma and recovery, noting how creative writing can serve as a medium for emotional healing.
The gathering also explored the role of art in supporting elderly citizens. Theatre and cinema personalities Kayyum Kazi, Mujeeb Khan, Anil Munghate, and Ravi Wadkar discussed how theatre and storytelling foster intergenerational connections and community engagement. Prior to the panel, a Marathi play was staged depicting the everyday realities and challenges faced by senior citizens.
Promoting intergenerational solidarity, dignitaries at the event were welcomed with handcrafted flowers made by street children, alongside books symbolising community support and hope.
