Now, the elderly people in the State can enjoy discount in health service, holiday homes, travel websites and others through ‘HelpAge Advantage Card’. The card was launched by HelpAge director Sushmita Ghosh in the city on Sunday during a Press conference. “More than monetary help or retirement plans, the aging population in the society need emotional support,” said Ghosh. She said that the card will be valid in more than 250 retail outlets across the country.
The NGO works toward welfare of elderly in the society. The card was launched by former election commissioner of the state Sushil Trivedi. Anyone above the age of 50 years can apply for the card. For information on the card is available at the HelpAge website.
The AdvantAge Card to empower the ageing. Throught his card one can join wellness programmes, avail medical facilities, holiday, travel, shop, or be simply entertained, all at specially discounted prices. Products and services are currently available only in select towns and cities through specified Card partners but is set to expand based on stated needs of members and their preferred locations, Ghosh said. Currently, HelpAge India serves the underprivileged elderly through various services in the areas of financial assistance and medical help. It also supports grass roots NGOs across India working for the welfare of elderly.
However, even the privileged senior citizens in the country need assistance and emotional support. They face problems of shrinking incomes after retirement, consequently reduced consumption, lack of assistance in performing outdoor chores, lack of peer group companionship, avenues for intellectual stimulation, lack of available paid and un-paid occupations and most importantly the crushing loneliness of old age.
HelpAge India is attempting to create an umbrella movement for retired and those about to retire to address their emotional and physical assistance needs. This movement looks to provide the means to stretch the disposable income by making available a host of discounted product services and facilities. It would provide a social platform to allow the members to interact within the group and also access training, vocational, occupation and other opportunities.