What COVID did to Chennai city's oldest old-age home and how they're coping

In this series during the lockdown, we look at how the life of Bhavani, who manages an oldage home has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic
Bhavani at her desk. Credit: TNIE
Bhavani at her desk. Credit: TNIE

Statistics of COVID-19 related deaths all over the world show that it is the elderly population that is most likely to succumb to the virus. Now, with the lockdown in place, the elderly, along with underprivileged sections of society, could also be severely affected and struggling for food. But the inmates at the Monegar Choultry Home for the Aged, Chennai, one of the oldest homes in the country are finding ways to stay safe.

Bhavani, the manager of the home, has worked at Monegar for over 40 years and has never really seen a situation like this before. But she is completely confident that the residents will be fed, safe and sound. As the home is located right opposite Government Stanley Hospital, they have doctors checking up on them as well. "The doctors have come and checked all the residents. Everybody is fine and if we need anything, the doctors come whenever it is necessary," says Bhavani. Currently, 45 people reside in this home. 

However, no visitors are allowed and Bhavani herself, who lives in the quarters within the campus, has also not stepped outside, "No one is allowed to go out and we have not admitted any new residents. We have not discharged anybody from the home either. We are very strict about that," she says. The residents are only allowed to go on walks inside the facility. For now, they have stocked up on food materials and don't need to go out to buy anything. They have also not run short of anything so far. However, if they do need something, Bhavani has help from the shop keepers who deliver the food materials to the gate. "For now, we have everything that we require," she says. 

Besides check-ups, the doctors have also ensured that the residents are provided with their medications, "We have stocked up on that too. The doctors have prescribed enough medicines, so that even people with health conditions have all that they need during this lockdown," she explains. The home, which was . established in 1782, has been a home for the city's destitute elderly and have made their last days comfortable. And even during this pandemic, it continues to keep them secure within its 238 year-old walls.

How has COVID-19 and the closure changed your life? Do drop us a line at edexlive@gmail.com and tell us. Discover some positivity during these pandemic times here

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