All you need to know about national helpline for senior citizens
All you need to know about national helpline for senior citizens
The standards of living for seniors still have significant room for enhancement. There are numerous opportunities for improvement, and governing bodies can take further action beyond their current initiatives. Here’s some information about a dedicated helpline for the elderly.
A government-operated helpline exists for senior citizens, designed specifically to assist the elderly population. The Elder Line serves as a National Helpline for Senior Citizens, created through a partnership with the National Institute of Social Defence (NISD) and multiple State and Union Territory Governments. This initiative was launched to foster connections with older individuals.
The helpline number 14567 is available from 8 am to 8 pm, seven days a week.
This elder helpline is established by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJ&E) in collaboration with various implementation agencies and state governments. The service extends complimentary information, guidance, emotional support, intervention in cases of abuse, rescue services, and assistance in reuniting homeless elderly individuals. This initiative is grounded in the principles of Consistency, Care, Empathy, and Encouragement.
The Elder Line draws on the expertise developed through the Telangana State helpline (Elder Spring), which was launched by Tata Trusts in partnership with the Vijayavahini Charitable Foundation (VCF) and the Department of Welfare of Disabled and Senior Citizens, Government of Telangana.
The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJ&E) has collaborated with Tata Trusts, the Vijayavahini Charitable Foundation, and the NSE Foundation to facilitate the implementation of Elder Line across all States and Union Territories.
The helpline number can be leveraged by any senior citizen. There is no cost incurred in the process. Besides, the number can be used by anybody who wants to communicate anything about the elderly or also by those who want to extend any form of assistance to senior citizens.
The services provided to senior citizens are generally divided into four categories:
1. Information – Resources related to doctors, hospitals, old age homes, and activity centers.
2. Guidance – Assistance with legal matters, maintenance act inquiries, and pension-related questions.
3. Support – Services addressing life issues, anxiety, relationship management, and emotional well-being.
4. Intervention – Direct actions (such as addressing elder abuse and rescuing homeless or abandoned seniors) and indirect efforts (focused on building a supportive ecosystem).
Elderly can use the number to convey their feelings or any assistance required. There are counselors available all the time to provide emotional support.
