ARUVI Health

Green valleys Seva team entertained Thaalattu group members with a shot and dance on Wednesday. .

Had to shift to a new location due to circumstances. Our work continues.

Need a used steel cupboard and a cot for a poor elderly couple with mentally challenged adult daughter in Mogappair West. Kindly message me.

Case study 3
Ramu and Maragatham- Names changed

The elderly couple appeared cautious when we visited their modest home. Ramu, aged 65, used to sustain himself by selling tender coconuts and had a thriving business. Unfortunately, due to health problems, he could no longer work. Maragatham, his wife, was doing well until four years ago when arthritis in both knees led to a fixed deformity, rendering her unable to use her legs. She now moves around by sitting on her buttocks. Some time back, Maragatham entrusted their house documents to her son, who mortgaged the property. This was a big loss to Ramu and his wife .Despite living far away, the son sporadically sends money but hasn't visited in over two years. Neighbors assist with food. Ramu manages cooking and cleaning but, regrettably, verbally and physically abuses his wife when intoxicated at night.
We invited them to ARUVI’s Drop in Centre (DIC), but Ramu with a high self esteem declined. However he expressed his major need .His poor eyesight, caused by cataracts, could not be set right due to their financial and physical constraints. We facilitated treatment at a nearby hospital, - taking them to hospital, staying with hime, bringing him back and putting eye drops for him, and taking care of their meals during those days..successfully restoring vision in one eye, .
The other eye surgery was pending. During this time, we regularly visited them. In the meanwhile Maragatham developed urinary incontinence but declined catheterization. Attempts to place them in an elders’ home were hindered by Ramu's resistance, despite Maragatham's willingness.
About two weeks post-eye surgery, Ramu experienced a tragic accident, slipping in the bathroom at night and sustaining a head injury. Unfortunately, he died unnoticed in the bathroom soon. The son attended the funeral and took Maragatham to his home, marking a sorrowful end for Ramu. We are pleased to have assisted Ramu in regaining vision and fostering hope for the future. We wish we had known them earlier.

This underscores the importance of sensitizing elders to challenges they may face with aging. Fortunately, this couple had a roof over their heads, support from the Public Distribution System for rations, and helpful neighbors.

Some of the ELDERS' Group members enjoying the sea breeze at Marina

🌟 Heartwarming Story of Hope and Compassion 🌟
Meet Mr. Rajee, a resilient 58-year-old from Chennai. Life dealt him a tough hand as he lost his wife shortly after their marriage. Despite working as a coolie in various places, challenges continued to mount for him.
Struggling with Parkinsonism and severe cataracts dimming his vision, Mr. Rajee found himself unable to work. Thankfully, compassionate neighbors extended a helping hand by providing meals whenever possible. His usual spot, the steps of a shoe shop, became a refuge.
That's when we discovered him and brought him to DIC. We gave Mr. Rajee a fresh start – a shave, trimmed and washed nails, new clothes, and a nourishing meal. While we lacked night stay facilities, the incredible team at Little Drops, a reliable NGO for destitute care, stepped in.
Muthu, from Little Drops, went above and beyond by taking Mr. Rajee on a motorcycle to his new home. As he departed, tears welled in his eyes, marking a poignant moment. Despite the sadness, we find solace in knowing that we could provide him with a safe haven.
Together, we can make a difference. Let's continue spreading love, hope, and kindness. 💙

Sharing some of our experiences.- Case Studies
We connected with this extraordinary family during a field visit. In the small house of Sethu, a skilled master tailor, we witnessed the familial challenges that had cast shadows on their once-prosperous days. By Sethu's side stands Gethalakshmi, the family matriarch, weaving the threads of their lives with unwavering determination in the face of adversity. Their life, once adorned with prosperity, took an unexpected turn, leaving them to struggle without a steady income.
Sethu, now burdened by the weight of lost dreams, shared his tale of a once-thriving tailoring business undone by family disputes. Yet, amidst the shadows of despair, Gethalakshmi emerged as a beacon of resilience, with a spirit to survive. She, confronted each day with indomitable will while battling her own health challenges.
Their daughter Priya, grappling with mental challenges, is the figure around whom the family revolves . Priya has to struggle in the midst of the complexities of her condition and unpredictable fits, managed through irregular treatment.
We invited them to our Drop-In Centre (DIC) managed by ARUVI, our organization, . Over the months we witness a transformation. Priya, always impeccably dressed, radiated the care given by her parents. In the embrace of our DIC, they felt loved and cared for
Recognizing the challenges faced by Sethu and Gethalakshmi, our NGO extended crucial support tailored to their needs. Regular interactions and assistance provided by our team not only enhanced their mental confidence but also instilled a profound sense of being cared for. As a result, they navigate their daily lives with newfound strength and assurance,
We conducted medical check-ups for the family and referred Priya to the medical OPD held by The Banyan at Manjakuppam PHC for treatment of MR and fits. Both Priya and her mother are being treated for diabetes. Recognizing Gethalakshmi's culinary skills, we provide her a small remuneration for helping in the kitchen, providing lunch for those who regularly use the DIC.
Sethu, a Master Tailor, repaired his sewing machine aided by a helping hand, His craftsmanship and confidence took us by surprise as he started creating classy dresses from the fabric we provided. Our vision now extends to training some of our women members to assist him, initiating a garment-producing unit. Despite the competitive garment market, we aim to market their creations among well-wishers, generating income for Sethu and other elders in our care.
Priya has become more sociable , communicating in her own way and loved by all at the DIC. She recently had a severe hyperglycemic episode, and we managed it with medical help from a nearby hospital.
Their story, one of resilience and hope, underscores the transformative impact of community support, providing the elderly parents with not just assistance but a profound sense of confidence and care.
(Names Changed)

What a joyful time.. The group of elders enjoyed themselves singing , dancing, and celebrating. Musical chairs, Passing the parcel and good food.. Grateful to Gremaltes and HHC for allowing us the space

https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/got-married-six-months-roy-120000935.html

Married a person with Dementia.. that is love

‘We got married six months after Roy was diagnosed with dementia – I didn’t want to hang around’ “It was me who noticed first,” says Kirsty Johnston-Mitchell, reclining on the sofa in her home in Blairgowrie, near Dundee, beside her husband Roy. “We’d moved house and Roy was getting lost while out on his runs an awful lot.”

He was afraid to cross the road because of his very poor vision.once cataracts were removed from both the eyes he has become confident neatly dressed & smiling. What a transformation..

Just a small loan to help an elder to expand a business..

Two elders from different families who had their cataract removed today. Thanks to MMRV for subsidizing the expenses. She is a widow who sells milk from 2 cows that she has. He used to sell tender coconuts but has been limited cos of his failing vision. He still cooks for his wife who has a moving disability. Great job Sathya and Muthulakshmi

Received a knd donation from Mr. Newsam Alexander today. Thank you Sir

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pjwrdK4n8Jg“Creating Hope Through Action”
Su***de is a major public health problem with far-reaching social, emotional and economic consequences. It is estimated that there are currently more than 700 000 su***des per year worldwide, and we know that each su***de profoundly affects many more people.

“Creating Hope Through Action” is the triennial theme for the World Su***de Prevention Day from 2021-2023. This theme serves as a powerful call to action and reminder that there is an alternative to su***de and that through our actions we can encourage hope and strengthen prevention.

By creating hope through action, we can signal to people experiencing suicidal thoughts that there is hope and that we care and want to support them. It also suggests that our actions, no matter how big or small, may provide hope to those who are struggling.

Lastly, it serves as a reminder that su***de prevention is a public health priority and urgent action is required to make sure su***de mortality rates are reduced. WHO will continue to work with its partners to support countries to take concrete measures in this direction.

World Su***de Prevention Day (WSPD) was established in 2003 by the International Association for Su***de Prevention in conjunction with the World Health Organization (WHO). The 10 September each year aims to focus attention on the issue, reduces stigma and raises awareness among organizations, governments, and the public, giving a singular message that su***des are preventable.

Dear friends

This is to inform you that we have started a Drop in centre for persons above 60 years of age at the Holistic centre, 1/97A, Kalamegam Road, Mogappair west, Chennai 37. It functions from 9.30 to 4 pm. During week days. A simple lunch and tea will be provided.
The objective of this Drop in Centre is to provide the elders physical and mental space to get away from their home as they may be depressed, lonely, or have an abusive atmosphere- at least for a few hours. The centre has a TV, a small library, and a few common rooms to take a nap, or play a game. The premises are clean, airy and have fans. There are no charges involved.
Usually a doctor is available in the ground floor from 9.30 to 12.30 p.m. and a nurse till 4 pm. Very sick persons are not eligible for this, as we cannot provide medical care for them.
There will be a caretaker available during the day to attend to bare minimum needs and safety. They have to necessarily leave the premises by 4 p.m.
The elders need to get a form signed by a close relative, permitting us to take care of them.

Do refer persons who need this kind of care

Adolescent girls find physical and psychosocial space to study...away from interferences distractions and lack of amenities from home. ARUVI has made a start with a study centre which will also provide insights into overcoming barriers to building and achieving their dreams

Dear friends

This is to inform you that we have started a Drop-in-Centre for persons above 60 years of age at the Holistic Health centre, 1/97A, Kalamegam Road, Mogappair west, Chennai 37. It functions from 9.30 to 4 pm. during weekdays. A simple lunch and tea will be provided.

The Objective of this Drop in Centre is to provide the elders physical and mental space, to take a break from their home atmosphere as they may be depressed, lonely, or abused .

The centre has a TV, a small library, and a few common rooms to take a nap, or play a game. The premises are clean, airy and have fans. There are no charges involved.

Usually a doctor is available in the ground floor from 9.30 to 12.30 p.m. and a nurse till 4 pm. Very sick persons are not eligible for this, as we cannot provide medical care for them.

There will be a caretaker available during the day to attend to bare minimum needs and safety. The clients have to necessarily leave the premises by 4 p.m. as we close by then.

The clients need to get a form signed by a close relative, permitting us to take care of them.

Do refer persons who need this kind of care

why do elders also need to have an income? It gives them a sense of dignity, self confidence and some money to buy what they need especially when children do not look after them.. Here is Devakiammal, a member of our elders' group starting to sell flowers. Here is a pic at the end of a succesful sale.

Many live their lives anxious, depressed nt nowing that these are health issues that could be overcome. We therefore build awareness among the community meeting them wherever possible- on the road, in their houses, or in small groups , and guide them towards prevention and treatment.. Elder women are neglected, abused, abandoned, burdened with care. Our group called THALATTU (lullaby) meets monthly to leaarn something new, share thieir experiences , do some savings. Those who can do a small buisness is given financial assistance too

Good morning. How is your day going? :) Amanda
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More mental health quotes at http://bit.ly/2P5ZvVp
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Catch them young. Substance abuse, violence, disturbed families, anxiety depression.. We had a discussion with a group of teenage boys.Then it was their time to play

Elders day out to Marina beach. What fun they had. Their families have no time for them

First 2 cheques being handed over to selected women vendors. One sells greens. The other has an outlet to extract edible oils and for grinding rice for iddly. Wish them well for a more empowred life.

V has a Psychiatric problem. He just got his disability certificate through ARUVI. There was a mistake in it and the banks refused to open a bank account on his name for his monthly remittance from the government. Our team tirelessly worked for it and finally got the corrections made. Here is the certificate being handed over to his caretaker. well done Aruvi.

Many women vendors are the sole providers for the family whether single, married, separated or widowed. A very high percentage of men are alcoholics who cannot look after their families but live off the income of their wives. Anger frustration inability to exercise their talents and rights, and subjected to domestic violence and harassment. Aruvi has identified 2 women to assist and support .we will expand the network slowly.

Our team interacting with auto drivers, who are one of the main stakeholders in the community. we hope to reach all the auto stands one by one. They know so much about the locals, and also about the actors who influence psycho social situation