National Helpline ‘Elder Line 14567’ Becomes a Lifeline for Senior Citizens
National Helpline ‘Elder Line 14567’ Becomes a Lifeline for Senior Citizens
Pune, September 15: “We are alone at home, our son lives abroad…”, “Relatives have taken over our house…”, “There is no one in the family to talk to…” — such concerns and grievances are being openly shared by senior citizens on ‘Elder Line – 14567’, the national helpline dedicated to the elderly.
Launched in August 2021, the helpline is run across all states and union territories with the support of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, the National Institute of Social Defence, and respective state governments. In Maharashtra, the service is managed by Janseva Foundation, Pune, under the guidance of Dr. Vinod Shah.
So far, the toll-free number 14567 has received over 4 lakh calls, with direct on-ground assistance provided in more than 30,000 cases.
The helpline offers free guidance on a wide range of issues, including health, nutrition, shelter homes, old-age homes, day-care centres, family disputes, property rights, pension schemes, and the Senior Citizens Act, 2007. It also provides legal advice, counselling for stress, depression, loneliness, and anger, as well as rehabilitation support for homeless and abused elderly. Assistance is extended in coordinating with families and even law enforcement when required.
“Elder Line 14567 is not just a helpline but a hand of trust and a safe support system for senior citizens,” officials said, appealing to elderly citizens in need to make use of this vital service to live with dignity.
