Elderly Program
Project Summary
Shishu Niloy Foundation has been implementing the Elderly Program since July 2017 in Elangi Union of Coatchandpur Upazila under Jhenaidah District, with the support of Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF). The program focuses on improving the quality of life of older people (60 years and above) through a multidimensional approach to poverty reduction, social dignity, and wellbeing.
A total of 2,119 elderly persons (1,165 male and 954 female) is currently receiving services under this initiative. The program combines social protection, health awareness, livelihood support, training, and financial assistance to ensure a dignified and secure life for elderly community members.
Project Goal and Objective
The overall goal of the Elderly Program is to improve the quality of life and dignity of older people through inclusive and sustainable support systems.
Key objectives include:
- Ensuring social dignity and respect for elderly people in the community
- Improving access to basic health awareness and services
- Supporting livelihood and income security through allowances and financial services
- Providing capacity-building training for better self-reliance
- Facilitating special loan support for income-generating activities suitable for elderly beneficiaries
Impact
The program has created meaningful social and economic impact in the project area:
- Improved living conditions and financial stability among elderly beneficiaries
- Increased social recognition and dignity of older persons in their families and communities
- Better access to basic health awareness and preventive care practices
- Strengthened social inclusion of vulnerable elderly populations
- Enhanced confidence and participation of elderly men and women in community life
Achievement
- Successfully reached 2,119 elderly beneficiaries in a rural union context
- Established a structured system of allowance and financial support for elderly people
- Introduced targeted training and livelihood support for income generation
- Strengthened community-level elderly support mechanisms
- Improved coordination with PKSF and local stakeholders for sustained service delivery
Challenges
- Limited access to advanced healthcare facilities in rural areas
- Increasing dependency ratio within families
- Inadequate social protection coverage for all eligible elderly persons
- Mobility and health limitations of beneficiaries affecting program participation
- Resource constraints for expanding services to additional elderly populations
Learning
- Integrated support (financial, social, and health) is essential for elderly wellbeing
- Community-based approaches improve trust and program effectiveness
- Regular engagement helps reduce isolation among elderly people
- Flexible financial services, including small loans, can enhance dignity and self-reliance
- Strong partnership with institutions like PKSF strengthens program sustainability
