Witnessing the act of compassion and kindness : A Visit to Prem Dham old age home

Students of Dehradun Hills Academy visit Prem Dham Old Age Home on Nelson Mandela Day.

On 18th July 2024, the students of Dehradun Hills Academy embarked on a heartwarming visit to Prem Dham, an old age home, to commemorate Nelson Mandela Day. This day, celebrated globally in honor of the values and legacy of the great leader Nelson Mandela, provided a perfect opportunity for the students to engage in community service and learn more about institutions working in elder care. Four students—Raghav, Prachi, Ammar, and Lobsung—represented the academy during this meaningful visit, which not only broadened their perspectives but also deepened their compassion towards the elderly.

Learning About Elder Care
The primary objective of the visit was to introduce the students to the vital work being done by organizations like Prem Dham in caring for senior citizens. As they walked through the premises, the students were given a tour of the facility and an insight into the day-to-day life of its residents. They learned about the challenges faced by the elderly and the kind of care they require—ranging from medical support to emotional companionship. This visit also helped them understand the different reasons that lead senior citizens to live in old age homes. Whether it is a lack of financial support, the loss of family members, or the absence of caregivers at home, the students came face-to-face with the stark realities of aging.

The compassionate staff at Prem Dham shared stories about the residents and their struggles, making the students realize that old age homes play a critical role in offering comfort and dignity to the elderly who may not have anyone else to rely on. The experience was eye-opening for the young visitors, allowing them to reflect on the importance of family bonds and the need to care for our elders.

Interview with the Head of Prem Dham

One of the most insightful moments of the visit was an interview conducted by Prachi, one of the students, with the head of Prem Dham. During the interview, Prachi inquired about the history of the institution, its mission, and the challenges it faces in providing care to its residents. The head of the institution shared that Prem Dham has been serving the elderly for many years, offering not just shelter but also medical care, psychological support, and a sense of community.

Prachi’s questions also touched on the broader societal issues related to elder care. The head of the institution explained how, in many cases, elderly individuals are left alone due to various circumstances—whether it’s due to migration of children, familial disputes, or health-related concerns. This insightful exchange gave the students a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding elder care in today’s world.

Acts of Kindness: Donating Basic Necessities
The students didn’t arrive at Prem Dham empty-handed. They had thoughtfully collected and brought along essential items to donate, such as toiletries, blankets, and food supplies, all of which would contribute to the daily needs of the residents. This gesture of generosity made a tangible impact, and the students felt a sense of fulfillment in knowing that their small contribution could help improve the lives of the elderly, even in a small way.

Witnessing the gratitude and joy of the residents as they received these items was an emotionally rewarding moment for the students. It reinforced the message that kindness and generosity can go a long way in making a difference in someone’s life. Raghav, one of the students, later reflected that the smiles on the faces of the residents were the greatest gift they could have received in return for their efforts.

A Valuable Learning Experience
For the students, this visit was not just an act of community service—it was a profound learning experience that gave them insight into a segment of society that is often overlooked. Ammar shared that the visit helped him realize how important it is to maintain a connection with older generations and to appreciate the wisdom and experiences they hold. Lobsung, another student, echoed these thoughts, saying that the visit to Prem Dham had encouraged him to think more deeply about the role of young people in creating a more inclusive and caring society.

Nelson Mandela Day, with its message of taking action to inspire change, served as the perfect backdrop for this experience. The students learned that taking care of the elderly is not just a societal responsibility but also a moral duty. They left Prem Dham with a renewed sense of purpose, determined to carry forward the values of respect, care, and kindness toward the elderly in their own communities.

Conclusion: An Experience That Will Stay With Them
The visit to Prem Dham on Nelson Mandela Day was undoubtedly a memorable and enriching experience for Raghav, Prachi, Ammar, and Lobsung. They not only learned about the operations of institutions that care for the elderly but also gained a deeper understanding of the emotional and social issues that force people into old age homes. More importantly, they saw firsthand the power of empathy, the importance of giving back, and the joy that comes from connecting with others.

As they returned to Dehradun Hills Academy, the students carried with them not only valuable lessons but also a sense of fulfillment in having made a difference, however small, in the lives of the elderly residents of Prem Dham. Their experience will likely inspire more students to get involved in such initiatives, ensuring that the legacy of compassion and care continues to grow.