Purnayou Senior Citizens Social Welfare Organization started its journey in September 2018 with 30 like-minded people. Initially we started our work by social gathering through which we make the society aware of the concern of the aged and promote better understanding of ageing issues. We help the elderly become aware of their own rights, so that, they get their due and are able to play an active role in the society.
Old age is an unavoidable part of every human life cycle. It should be lived gracefully rather than grudgingly. But, here in Bangladesh, ageing is a major challenge. Aged people suffer from joblessness, proper health-care, malnutrition, loneliness, financial support and lack of freedom. Many older people are passing time in loneliness as nuclear families are on the rise. Indeed, elderly people are now alone everywhere – be it at villages or in cities.
Ageing population worldwide has led to an increased need of welfare activities for the elderly citizens in the society. The average life expectancy in Bangladesh is currently 71 years. As a result of the increased life expectancy, the number of elderly people is gradually increasing. Sadly, rights and welfare of senior citizens have not been sufficiently established in the country by either the government or private sector. Therefore, majority of the senior population is overlooked by their families and society. They are deprived of physical, mental and financial welfare. Majority of them suffer from joblessness, dependency, isolation from families/society and negligence. The worst affected are those from less privileged backgrounds. Hence, Purnayou aims to establish rights and secure dignity of the senior citizens through provision of support, entertainment, opportunities to establish friendship among themselves and other welfare activities.