Honouring Our Elderly Women
Caring for Those
Who Once Cared for Us.
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Who We Call Elderly
The term “elderly” generally refers to individuals aged 60 years and above, as defined by the United Nations and adopted in the Indian context. In India, most welfare schemes and legal frameworks for senior citizens are designed for this age group.
As India’s population continues to age, the share of elderly citizens is steadily increasing — from 8.6% in 2011 to over 10.5% in 2022, and projected to reach nearly 21% by 2050. Among them, a significant majority are women, who tend to live longer but often face far greater social and economic vulnerabilities. Studies reveal that 58% of India’s elderly are women, and over half of them are widows.
Challenges of Ageing in Urban Low-Income Communities
For elderly women living in urban slum areas, the golden years often bring heavy burdens instead of rest and respect. Most have spent a lifetime working as domestic help or in informal jobs, with little to no social or financial security to fall back on.
Key issues faced by elderly women include:
- Economic insecurity: Loss of livelihood after years of informal work, with no pension or savings to depend on.
- Poor health & limited healthcare access: Chronic pain, vision loss, and fatigue are common; health checkups remain unaffordable or inaccessible.
- Nutritional deficiency: Irregular meals and poor diet contribute to weakness and low immunity.
- Loneliness & social neglect: With younger family members away for work, many spend long hours alone, feeling invisible and unwanted.
- Dependence & helplessness: Physical weakness makes them reliant on others for even basic needs.
- Lack of awareness: Many are unaware of or unable to access government schemes due to illiteracy, digital barriers, or lack of support.
- Mental health concerns: Anxiety, depression, and a loss of purpose often go unnoticed and untreated.
Being both female and elderly compounds their disadvantage — a double burden that too often leaves them unseen and unheard.
Why Prayaas Works with Elderly Women
At Prayaas, we believe that every stage of life deserves dignity, care, and purpose. Working with elderly women is a vital part of our life-cycle approach — ensuring that support and empowerment continue through every phase of life.
In urban low-income communities, elderly women are among the most marginalized — facing overlapping vulnerabilities of gender, age, poverty, and neglect. Many of them, after years of service as domestic workers, find themselves struggling to survive in their later years. Recognizing their silent suffering, Prayaas aims to restore their health, dignity, and happiness through compassionate, community-based interventions.
Our Interventions
Currently, 220 elderly women are enrolled across seven Day Care Centres in five low-income communities of Kolkata including Shahid Smriti Colony, Jodhpur Park, Amar Bari(formerly Jhoro Basti), KP Roy Lane, and Mahabirtala . These centres are safe and nurturing spaces where elderly women can reconnect with community life and rediscover a sense of belonging. From 2017 to till date we have reached to 320 elderly women supporting them in the later stage of life.
Through our Elderly Care Programme, we provide:
- Psycho-social support: Activities, games, storytelling sessions, and celebrations that help rebuild self-worth and joy.
- Nutritional support: Regular supplementary nutrition to bridge dietary gaps and improve strength.
- Healthcare access: Regular health and eye camps, distribution of free spectacles, and linkages with healthcare providers.
- Social security linkages: Support in accessing government entitlements like pensions, insurance, and assistive devices.
- Purpose and participation: Encouraging active involvement in community events and intergenerational interactions.
Impact and Change
The impact of this initiative has been both heartwarming and profound.
- 65 elderly women have been successfully linked with various government entitlements.
- In the past year alone, 229 women attended health camps, and 130 received free spectacles, significantly improving their mobility and quality of life. S Examples
- Most importantly, the centres have become spaces of laughter, friendship, and renewed purpose.
Women who once felt invisible now share stories, celebrate birthdays, play games, and bless younger generations with warmth and love. Their smiles tell stories of restored confidence and belonging.
A Dignified Life for Every Elderly Woman
At Prayaas, we see every wrinkle as a symbol of wisdom and resilience. Our work with elderly women is a tribute to their lifelong labour, their quiet strength, and their unwavering spirit.
Through our day care centres and holistic approach, we continue to ensure that the golden years truly become years of care, connection, and celebration.
Support Our Mission
Your contribution empowers marginalized women and helps build a just society free from violence and discrimination. Every rupee makes a difference.
Meet Our Dedicated Team
Passionate individuals committed to empowering women and building a just society.
Make a Difference: Volunteer with Prayaas
Join Prayaas and be a part of meaningful social transformation. Your time, skills, and passion can uplift communities and empower women and girls across West Bengal.
Whether it’s assisting with programs, event planning, fundraising, or fieldwork, your contribution helps build a brighter, more equitable future. Explore the variety of volunteer opportunities available and find the perfect fit for you.
