Thiruvananthapuram, 14 Feb(H.S.):In a major welfare initiative aimed at strengthening support systems for senior citizens, the Kerala government is set to establish Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) in every district to provide immediate assistance to elderly people facing emergencies and social vulnerabilities.

The scheme, to be implemented by the Social Justice Department, is expected to be launched soon after the completion of training for team members. The RRTs will respond to a wide spectrum of issues affecting senior citizens, including isolation, illness, financial distress, abuse, and physical or mental health challenges.

Officials said the programme will cater to elderly individuals across all economic categories, covering both Above Poverty Line (APL) and Below Poverty Line (BPL) families. The core objective is to ensure that senior citizens receive timely intervention during crises such as epidemics, natural disasters, accidents, or sudden medical emergencies.

Apart from emergency response, the teams will help elderly persons access healthcare services, psychological counselling, legal aid, skill development opportunities, and various social security and welfare schemes. The initiative also seeks to promote social reintegration and dignity for senior citizens who may be living alone or without adequate family support.

A notable feature of the scheme is the provision of caregivers for destitute and bedridden elderly individuals. The government has fixed a daily reimbursement of ₹675 for caregivers, while those engaged in full-time services will receive ₹1,350 per day. In urgent situations, authorised caregivers will be empowered to take necessary financial decisions on behalf of beneficiaries without waiting for prior approval, ensuring swift and effective intervention.

To coordinate operations at the district level, Field Response Officers (FROs) will be appointed on a contract basis under the supervision of District Social Justice Officers. The government will also arrange vehicles, ambulance facilities, and nursing services as required. Recognised social service organisations in each district will collaborate with the RRTs to strengthen emergency outreach and community-based support.

Once officially launched, the Rapid Response Teams can be accessed through the toll-free Elder Line Kerala helpline number, 14567.

With Kerala witnessing a steady rise in its elderly population, the initiative is expected to significantly enhance the State’s social care framework by offering structured, timely, and compassionate assistance to senior citizens in distress.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman