AMAIDI ILLAM and TENDRAL ILLAM
Care for the Elderly
This program is a response to the urge of the leaders of Volontariat to provide care, human warmth and security to the elderly, isolated, destitute and homeless.
Care for the aged is located in Volontariat, but in two different places in the city: - Amaidi Illam, the “House of Peace” is included in the centre Selvanilayam at Uppalam and receives, since the year 2000, lonely and disabled aged people, mostly coming from the streets and pavements of the city. - Thendral Illam, the “Sea breeze”, set up in 2002, opposite Atelier Shanti at Dubraypeth, receives former workers, mostly retired weavers of Atelier Shanti (rehabilitated after leprosy), who are too disabled to live alone.
This was made possible, thanks to the financial support of a generous donor and friend, Bernard Aubé, who passed away in December 2008.
The need to open a home for the elderly is the consequence of a recent social phenomenon. Indeed, the usual insurance for the people was the family, the "joint family", where all members, including the elders, had their place. Now the family is increasingly fragmented, too often indifferent to the members in need of care. It appears that sometimes, people do not hesitate even to abandon their parents. An old man or woman without family, pension or other resources is helpless and can easily become homeless. If the person is a former leprosy patient, there is further rejection by society.
Amaidi Illam provides the ageing citizen, comfort and affectionate care. Twenty four rooms with shower and attached toilet are available. Preference for admission is given to the most needy, as identified by our social workers. In 2009, there were 30 residents, mostly women, availing of the program.
The doctor and nurse are always available to treat their health problems. Care, regular food, safe housing and the affection of all make them change for the better, quickly. Some of them are now able to give back this affection to the children with whom they interact daily. Once in a while, Volontariat succeeds in finding the family of an inmate and to see to his being re-united with them. This is rare.
Thendral Illam offers the same kind of services for a smaller number in Dubraypet, where Atelier Shanti is located. There are five residents, whose needs are fully taken care of. They have the additional advantage of their associates from Atelier Shanti, dropping in for a chat and the constant sound of the waves and the weavers.
Every year, there are a few deaths, but what is heartwarming to everyone is that they die with dignity. There is a short ceremony, a few verses read from their religious text. They are surrounded by other residents and Volontariat staff and there is a sense of peace.
