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What is good for one may not be good for another. When the children leave the nest and one’s responsibilities at work and in the family no longer exist, thoughts of moving to the security and convenience of a senior citizen home become alluring. At such times Nidhi Chawla, the cofounder of Silver Talkies says, “No cooking, no housekeeping hassles or troublesome maids to contend with, and immediate care in case of medical emergencies are top of the list of conveniences that swing decisions in favour of moving into a senior citizen home.”

In her association with Silver Talkies members, Nidhi knows of several who are considering moving into an active living home and are evaluating options and investment opportunities, but few have made the decision to finalise the investment and commit to a move to a home when it becomes necessary. Good health, an active lifestyle and a comfortable situation post retirement, are fertile grounds for procrastination. Nidhi says that the experiences of those living in these homes is mixed. Many like it, but for others it is just not their cup of tea.

By design senior citizen homes encourage activity and social engagement, learning new skills, and the emotional comfort of living in a likeminded community. Nidhi said, “It is an energising space for seniors who are weighed down by the loneliness of an empty nest.” Children who live abroad or away from their parents and find it difficult to respond to a parental emergency, consider it wise to move them into a well-run home as they worry about their well-being. One frequently hears elders at these homes say their children wanted them to move there.

Nidhi believes active living at home is an option that many prefer whether for financial reasons or because of their personal circumstances, however there is a huge gap in the availability of trained staff to provide home care. Remote medical care has a long way to go in our country.


To be continued.....