Anganwadis by day and spaces for seniors after 3:30 pm: Elders of Arimpur feeling young, thanks to Vayo Clubs

THRISSUR: The Anganwadis in Arimpur are spaces for the elderly after 3:30 pm. They will gather and evaluate the welfare work done that day and plan ahead for the next day. They will raise the money for it from their own pockets. In the meantime, they will listen to the problems of the members of the group and find solutions.

There are 34 old age clubs functioning in the 34 Anganwadis in Arimpur Gram Panchayat. 5014 members above the age of sixty. They do not even have time to think about the boredom or isolation of old age. Every club is that active. A group of retired government employees, teachers, doctors, lawyers, and farmers.

The first club was formed in 2019. Within a year, there were clubs in every ward. The performance of the old age clubs was exemplary during the Covid period. The clubs provided assistance to 1,684 people affected by Covid in the panchayat.

The work is done by forming clusters of 30-40 houses. Welfare activities have been distributed. The 'Vayo calling' is noteworthy. The member in charge of this will call every morning and conduct welfare inquiries. This will be reported in the evening meeting. Study assistance, legal aid, medical camp for economically backward children... There are very few areas where Vayo Club does not provide assistance. Some clubs have also opened reading rooms. There is also a Vayojanolsavam every year.

Palliative care

Vayo Club is also a refuge for bedridden patients registered at Arimpur Family Health Center. 48 volunteers are trained and sent to care for bedridden patients. Wheelchairs, beds and diapers are delivered to the places where they are needed. The idea that will be implemented now is to accommodate those who do not have any support in the hospital.

Government recognition

Arimpur wins the state government's first Vayo Seva Puraskaram

"Vayo Clubs aids to find out the problems of everyone in their area

V.K. Unnikrishnan

Panchayat Coordinator