Share your story and shine at JK Monitor!đ Welcome to JK Monitor, where every story matters and every achievement is celebrated! We invite you to share the remarkable journey of your life and showcase your accomplishments to the world. Join our exclusive interviews that honor exceptional individuals just like you. JAMMU: Home for the Aged & Infirm (Vridh Ashram), Ambphalla, Jammu, warmly welcomed a group of 26 postgraduate students from the Department of Psychology, University of Jammu, for an educational field visit and interactive programme aimed at enhancing their practical understanding of ageing, emotional well-being, social care and the psychological needs of senior citizens.
The visit was organised as part of the academic curriculum for students of the M.A. Psychology, First Semester, to provide them with an opportunity to connect theoretical knowledge with practical experience and gain firsthand insights into the functioning of an institution dedicated to the care, dignity and welfare of older persons.
The programme was attended by Er. Pankaj Gupta, President; Dr. Dinesh Gupta, Secretary; Sr. Rajinder Singh& Shri Sat Pal Sharma, Member of the Managing Committee; and Dr. Bharat Bhushan Sharma representing Home for the Aged & Infirm. The visiting team from the Department of Psychology included Ms. Eram Khan and Mr. Vishav Katoch, Ph.D. Scholars, who accompanied and supervised the students during the visit. Ms. Manpreet Kour, an M.A. Psychology student of the First Semester& Mohd. Azzam Sarwar from Central University of Jammu, efficiently performed the role of anchor and helped coordinate the programme.
During the visit, the students interacted with the residents and gained valuable insights into their daily routines, experiences, emotional needs and social well-being. The interaction provided an opportunity for the students to appreciate the importance of empathy, patience, active listening, companionship and psychological support in promoting the overall well-being of senior citizens, particularly those who require care, protection and a supportive environment.
The programme featured a variety of engaging and recreational activities, including painting, dance, games and interactive sessions, in which the residents participated enthusiastically. These activities created a lively and cheerful atmosphere, encouraging meaningful interaction between the students and the residents. The participation of the residents reflected the importance of recreation, creative expression and social engagement in maintaining emotional health and a sense of belonging among older persons.
The representatives of Vridh Ashram appreciated the initiative of the Department of Psychology, University of Jammu, in providing its students with an opportunity to learn beyond the classroom. Such field visits play an important role in sensitising young learners to the challenges associated with ageing and in developing a compassionate, inclusive and socially responsible outlook towards elderly care.
Er. Pankaj Gupta, President, Home for the Aged & Infirm, highlighted the importance of strengthening the connection between academic institutions and social welfare organisations. He emphasised that direct interaction with senior citizens helps students develop a deeper understanding of human behaviour, emotional needs, loneliness, social isolation and the significance of dignified care in later life. He also observed that such initiatives promote mutual learning, intergenerational bonding and greater awareness about the responsibilities of society towards older persons.
The Managing Committee expressed its appreciation to the Department of Psychology, University of Jammu, for choosing Vridh Ashram as a learning destination and for engaging its residents in meaningful and enjoyable activities. The visit was a valuable experience for the students as well as the residents, fostering mutual understanding, compassion and a spirit of togetherness.
Home for the Aged & Infirm (Vridh Ashram), Ambphalla, Jammu, continues to welcome meaningful collaborations with educational institutions and community organisations to promote awareness, social responsibility and the dignity and well-being of senior citizens.
