Flourishing Collectively Through Self-Help Groups: A Case of the Rural Elderly, India
摘要
The elderly have historically been respected and revered, yet in contemporary times, they are at a crossroads. Amidst a demographic shift and other factors of social change, they confront rising instances of abuse, marginalization, and exclusion. This narrative sets the stage for HelpAge India’s transformative initiative aimed at empowering the elderly through the creation of Elder Self-help Groups (ESHGs). Covering nearly 16,000 individuals across four rural areas through 1341 ESHGs, this initiative is an indigenous model fostering collective flourishing. These ESHGs have revitalized the roles of the elderly by reintegrating them into communities through different collectives at the village, cluster, and district levels. By engaging in tailored livelihood activities like agriculture, crafts, and small businesses, these groups transcend mere economic benefits, providing invaluable spaces for social interaction, loneliness, and fostering a sense of belonging among the elderly. These interactions have proven to serve as stress relievers, significantly reducing instances of elder abuse while restoring dignity within families and communities. The SHGs not only emphasize collective flourishing but also offer invaluable insights into strategies for future endeavours aimed at enriching the lives of elderly individuals globally.