Field Visit Report on Narmada Niketan Old Age Home, CBD Belapur

Old age homes are residential facilities designed to provide care, support, and
companionship to elderly individuals who may not have family support or prefer a
community living environment. These homes offer a safe and comfortable setting where
seniors can receive medical care, social interaction, and assistance with daily activities.On 21
February 2025 , A total 58 First-year D. Pharm students along with coordinators from the
Bharti Vidyapeeth Institute of Pharmacy, arranged a field visit to Narmada Niketan , an Old
Age Home located in CBD Belapur in Navi Mumbai.

 Purpose of the Visit:

Field visits to old age homes serve multiple objectives, particularly for students and
professionals in healthcare, social work, and related fields. These visits provide hands-on
exposure to the realities of geriatric care and help participants develop a deeper
understanding of the needs and challenges faced by elderly individuals.

Key Objectives of the Visit:

1. Understanding Geriatric Healthcare Needs:

o Observing common age-related health conditions such as arthritis, diabetes,

hypertension, and cognitive decline.

o Learning about medication management and the role of healthcare providers

in elderly care.

2. Developing Empathy and Compassion:

o Engaging with senior residents to understand their emotional and

psychological challenges.

o Recognizing the importance of companionship and social interaction in

improving their quality of life.

3. Observing the Role of Caregivers and Medical Staff:

o Studying the daily responsibilities of caregivers, nurses, and doctors in

ensuring elderly well-being.

o Understanding the significance of patient counseling and emotional support.

4. Learning About Facilities and Services:

o Gaining insights into the accommodation, food services, and medical support
systems provided at old age homes.

o Observing recreational activities that contribute to the physical and mental

well-being of residents.
5. Analyzing Challenges Faced by Senior Citizens and Institutions:

o Identifying issues such as lack of family involvement, financial constraints, and

limited healthcare accessibility.

o Exploring ways in which society and institutions can improve elderly care.

6. Encouraging Community Participation and Volunteering:

o Motivating students and visitors to contribute through social work, donations,

or regular interaction with elderly residents.

o Promoting awareness about the significance of old age homes and the need
for enhanced senior care policies.

 Introduction:

This report aims to document a field visit to Narmada Niketan Old Age Home,
located in CBD Belapur, Navi Mumbai, undertaken by first-year D. Pharm students
from the Bharati Vidyapeeth Institute of Pharmacy on 21 February 2025. The visit
was organized to help students gain practical insights into the lives of elderly
residents, understand their healthcare needs, and recognize the role of pharmacists in
geriatric care.

The report outlines the purpose of the visit, observations made during interactions
with residents and staff, the facilities and services provided, and the challenges faced
by the institution. Additionally, recommendations for improving elderly care and
enhancing the overall experience of residents are discussed. This field visit served as
an opportunity for students to develop empathy, social responsibility, and a better
understanding of the healthcare needs of the elderly population.

 Background:

Established in 1984 by the Narmadaben Charitable Foundation (NCF), Narmada Old

Age Home in CBD Belapur, Navi Mumbai, provides a safe and caring
environment for senior citizens. Operating as a non-profit organization, it offers
accommodation, medical support, nutritious meals, and recreational activities to
promote the well-being of elderly residents.

Located in a peaceful area, the home ensures dignity, security, and emotional support for
aging individuals. It relies on donations, volunteers, and community efforts to
maintain its quality care services, making it a respected institution for senior welfare.
  Observations and Interactions:

During the visit, students had the opportunity to engage with the residents, listen to their
life stories, and understand their struggles and needs. Some key observations included:

 Many residents expressed feelings of loneliness and abandonment but appreciated

the support provided by the staff.

 The home maintained a clean and organized living environment, ensuring comfort
and safety.

 Residents required regular medical attention, especially those suffering from chronic
conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, and hypertension.

 The administration of medications was well-managed, but challenges in dosage

adjustments and drug interactions were observed.

 Social and recreational activities played a crucial role in maintaining residents'

emotional well-being.

 Facilities and Services provided by them:

Narmada Old Age Home provides a comprehensive range of facilities and services to
ensure a comfortable, secure, and dignified life for senior citizens. These services
focus on their physical, emotional, medical, and social well-being to promote a
healthy and fulfilling lifestyle.

1. Emotional and Psychological Support

 Counseling services are available for residents dealing with loneliness, grief, or
mental health issues.
 Trained staff and volunteers engage residents in meaningful conversations to
improve emotional well-being.
 The home promotes peer bonding and socialization to reduce feelings of isolation.
 Special efforts are made to connect residents with their families through regular
phone calls and scheduled visits.

2. Medical Support
 An in-house medical dispensary provides immediate access to basic medicines and
first aid.
 Regular visits by doctors ensure timely health check-ups and early detection of
medical conditions.
 Trained nurses and caregivers are available round the clock to assist residents with
their daily medical needs.
 The home has tie-ups with nearby hospitals and clinics to provide emergency
medical support and specialized treatments.
 Special medical attention is given to residents with chronic conditions such as
diabetes, hypertension, arthritis, and dementia.
 Residents are monitored for medication adherence, side effects, and dosage
adjustments to ensure safety.

3. Security and Hygiene

 The facility maintains 24/7 security to ensure the safety of all residents.
 The premises are regularly cleaned and sanitized to maintain high hygiene
standards.
 The home follows strict health and safety guidelines to prevent infections and
ensure residents' well-being.

4. Recreational and Social Activities

 Daily activities are organized to keep residents mentally and physically active.
 A variety of indoor games such as chess, carrom, and board games help stimulate
mental alertness.
 Yoga and meditation sessions are conducted to improve flexibility, relaxation, and
mental well-being.
 Religious and cultural events such as bhajans, kirtans, and festival celebrations
foster community bonding.
 A well-stocked library with newspapers, magazines, and books encourages reading
habits.
 Music therapy and storytelling sessions provide entertainment and help alleviate
stress.
 Residents participate in art, craft, and light gardening activities, encouraging
creativity and engagement.
 Group discussions and motivational talks are organized to promote interaction and
positivity among residents.
 5. Accommodation
 The home offers both single and shared rooms, allowing residents to choose based
on their comfort and preference.
 Rooms are well-ventilated and furnished with essential items like beds, chairs,
cupboards, and fans.
 Each room is designed to be elderly-friendly, with easy accessibility and minimal
obstacles.
 Safety features such as handrails in hallways, emergency call buttons, and anti-slip
flooring ensure the well-being of residents.
 Clean and hygienic bathroom facilities with grab bars and accessible designs for
mobility-impaired residents.

6. Spiritual and Religious Facilities

 A small temple is available within the premises for residents to practice their faith
and attend prayers.
 Regular spiritual gatherings and discussions are conducted to promote peace and
inner well-being.
 The home respects all religious beliefs, ensuring inclusivity and participation in
various cultural traditions.

7. Food and Nutrition

 The home provides nutritious, well-balanced vegetarian meals prepared under
hygienic conditions.
 A structured diet plan is customized for residents based on their health conditions
and dietary restrictions.
 Special meals are prepared for individuals with diabetes, high blood pressure, and
other medical needs.
 The dining hall is spacious, clean, and organized, ensuring a comfortable meal
experience.
 Residents are encouraged to stay hydrated, with regular servings of healthy drinks
like herbal tea and fresh juices.

8. Entertainment and Outings

 The home has TV rooms where residents can watch news, movies, and
entertainment programs.
 Regular outings and picnics are organized to nearby parks, temples, and cultural
centers to provide a change of environment.
 Special guest visits by social workers, students, and volunteers help bring variety and
new experiences to residents
  Challenges Faced by Narmada Old Age Home:

Despite its well-maintained infrastructure and services, the home faces certain challenges:

 Funding Constraints: The home relies heavily on donations and sponsorships for its
operations.

 Shortage of Medical Staff: More trained nurses and caregivers are required for better
healthcare services.

 Limited Family Interaction: Many residents feel emotionally neglected due to

infrequent visits from family members.

 Need for Expanded Recreational Activities: Additional activities like music therapy,
outdoor trips, and exercise programs can improve residents' quality of life.

 Suggestions for Improvement:

Based on observations, the following improvements can be suggested:

 Increasing volunteer participation to provide companionship to residents.

 Establishing counseling programs for emotional and mental support.

 Collaborating with local healthcare institutions for better medical services.

 Organizing more outdoor activities and engagement programs to enhance residents'

social interactions.

 Conclusion:

The field visit to Narmada Old Age Home was a valuable learning experience for students,
providing insights into the realities of aging and the importance of elderly care. The visit
highlighted the significant role of healthcare professionals, social workers, and volunteers
in improving the lives of senior citizens. While the home provides excellent facilities and
compassionate care, continued support and community involvement are essential for
further enhancement of elderly well-being. The students left with a deeper sense of
responsibility, empathy, and commitment toward elderly care, making this visit a
meaningful and impactful experience.
 Areas of Narmada Old Age,CBD Belapur
 Group Photos of students interacting with staff members,senior citizens :