Government Vellore Medical College Hospital – Department of General Medicine, Geriatric Unit

International Day of Older Persons (IDOP) 2026

Ageing with Dignity: Strengthening Care and Support Systems for Older Persons

The International Day of Older Persons (IDOP) was observed at the Government Vellore Medical College Hospital on 16th October 2026. The theme for this year was “Ageing with Dignity: Strengthening Care and Support Systems for Older Persons”.

The programme commenced with a rally, flagged off by Prof. Dr. S. Muthu Chitra, M.S., D.L.O., Dean of the institution. MBBS students, Nursing students, Physician Assistant students and Allied Health Sciences students took part in the rally, which was followed by a health awareness programme in the Outpatient Block premises.

Dr. Bijin Oliver John, M.D., Senior Asst. Professor of Geriatrics, welcomed the gathering and gave an insightful introduction to this year’s theme. The welcome address was given by Mrs. M. Shama Sharmila, Staff Nurse. Prof. Dr. S. Muthu Chitra, M.S., D.L.O., Dean, inaugurated the celebrations and spoke about the needs of the elderly and the importance of geriatric health care.

The programme was attended by Prof. Dr. N. Rathi Thilagam, M.D., Medical Superintendent; Prof. Dr. Gowri Veligandla, M.D., Vice-Principal; Dr. D. Ravichandran, MBBS., DCH., Resident Medical Officer; Dr. G. M. Geetha, Assistant Resident Medical Officer; Prof. Dr. V. Sathi, M.D., Head of the Department of General Medicine; Dr. A. T. Maaran, M.D., Associate Professor of General Medicine; and other faculty members.

Patients and attendees shared their experiences and praised the quality of care and treatment they received in the Geriatric ward. Healthy ageing and high-quality medical care were the highlights of the elders’ speeches.

Games and activities were organised in the ward for the elders, and they were awarded gifts and prizes. One of the patients gave a beautiful poem recitation, which received great applause. The event concluded with cultural performances by MBBS students and B.Sc. Physician Assistant students. Dr. B. Annie Charlet Dayana, Physiotherapist (Geriatrics), proposed the vote of thanks.

This celebration underscored the commitment of Government Vellore Medical College Hospital to enhancing the quality of life of older persons through compassionate care and strong support systems.