KMC Hospital Attavar holds Weeklong Activities as part of International Day of Older Persons
Mangaluru: As part of plans to commemorate the International Day of Older Persons 2019, the American Medical Students Association, KMC Mangalore Chapter in association with the Centre for Care of Older Persons, Kasturba Medical College Hospital, Attavar, Mangalore organized weeklong activities from October 22 to October 26th 2019.
Although age is merely a measure of time, people generally hold negative perceptions of ageing. The theme for the International Day of Older Persons for the year 2019 is aligned with the Sustainable Development Goal 10 and recognizes that reducing age inequality is essential to development.
Globally, the number of persons aged 60 years or over is projected to triple in the next thirty years. This has special significance for India as, we are facing a projected 300 million older adults by the year 2050. It is therefore important that young people need to be aware of the social, political and economic consequences of an ageing society so they learn to live in an age-inclusive society. As educators, it becomes our duty to confront stereotypical images of older adults and educate our youth to develop an accurate and balanced view of ageing.
We have come up with the following projects to fulfil the objectives of the IDOP -2019
Project 1 – Ask me about Ageism
Through this project, we aim to create awareness about age inequality among members of the society, understand their attitudes towards older adults and educate them about ageism. On 22nd & 23rd The staff, patients and the general population at KMCH Attavar, Mangaluru and KMC, Light House Hill Road, Mangaluru will be approached by trained volunteers of Kasturba Medical College, Mangaluru.
Project 2
Elocution competition for High School Students of Mangaluru on 24th October at Kasturba Medical College, Light House Hill Road, Mangaluru. The aim is to get the younger generations to think & find solutions for ageism & to inculcate active insights among the younger individuals. Prizes will be given to the best speakers during the valedictory ceremony.
Project 3
Spend time and fulfil the needs of the elderly on 25th October 2019
Student volunteers from KMC, Mangalore will spend time and attempt to fulfil wishes of destitute older adult patients from the geriatric ward at KMCH, Attavar.
The Valedictory Ceremony for a week of activities will be held at the Sushrutha Hall, KMC Attavar, Mangaluru on 26th October 2019 at 3:00 pm. Dr Unnikrishnan, Associate Dean, KMC Mangalore will be the Chief Guest of the function. Shyam Krishnan K, Assistant Professor, Department of Physiotherapy will be the guest speaker. Dr Sheetal Raj, Associate Professor, Department of Medicine will preside over the function.
