Safety for seniors

As a senior citizen, may I suggest the following? Wealthy Parsis would not like to live in far off Homes for the Aged. Senior citizens living singly could renovate their flats so as to maintain their independence, and live jointly together securely, like a family looked after by a caretaker.

Firstly, senior citizens should have faith in dedicated social workers of the community. The Parsi Punchayet should form a separate committee of social workers who visit the homes of senior citizens living alone (as is done in the USA), help solve their problems and see that basic needs are satisfied. Once the senior citizens repose their faith in a social worker’s suggestions and give up their large flats on rent (to their own gain) they can live together, independently and safely.

The owner of a large flat can start her own home just for three-four ladies. The flat can be partitioned so that each resident can then have privacy. They can even order tiffin from outside. Their monthly expenses would come down by sharing. The owner of the flat can earn by getting a reasonable rent. A photograph of the servant and the address is a must. A grilled double door to the entrance can ensure their safety. Elderly people of the same age group have mature ideas and experiences. Their thinking, emotions and religious feelings are at par. They communicate on the same level with each other and so they can live peacefully together.

Alternately, elders could surrender, exchange or sell their large flats and shift in small flats. Many young couples want to live with old persons and are prepared to pay rent and look after them. However, so far, this scheme has not been very successful.

The Punchayet trustees have to file lawsuits to recover the property usurped by the servants after the passing away of a senior citizen. This strains the resources of the trust. Why not, instead, maintain contact with such individuals living in Parsi Punchayet properties and, after obtaining their voluntary and legal consent, counsel them to dispose of their estate in a manner benefiting the community?

Senior citizens have the right to lie with dignity and peace in the Towers of Silence instead of in a stinking morgue.

ROSHAN M. BULSARA