Page 20 - Seniors Today Dec 2019
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A happy life could turn into a nightmare if the seniors give up their rights over the family home
Citizens Act, 2007. An important provision in There is also a very strong feeling of protecting
the Act relates to transfer of property, which the family reputation due to which seniors do
can be made void under certain circumstances. not report abuse from their children. If seniors
However, there are several problems that speak out about what is happening to them,
seniors face in order to get justice from the it may be possible for NGOs or others to help
Tribunal. Firstly, not all seniors are mobile them. Seniors also need to be educated about
enough or have the physical or emotional their legal rights under the Act.
strength to file a complaint and see it through. It is also important to create general awareness
Also, there is often considerable delay in the about such issues in the minds of people—
functioning of the Tribunal. So, although there neighbours, healthcare professionals and
is legislation for ensuring that seniors are authorities—who can help the elderly report
protected, the implementation of the legislation instances of abuse. Police departments need to
is far from easy. set up special cells to monitor and reach out to
the elderly community, giving them the support
What to do they require to become vocal about their
For a senior who feels that someone is problems. The government has a responsibility
attempting to grab his/her property, it is to protect the elderly and must put more
important to talk to someone about it. That measures in place to ensure that seniors feel
someone could be your lawyer, doctor, or anyone confident to report offenders.
you can trust. There are also helplines set up Protecting seniors from property-related
by NGOs for such eventualities. Many seniors offences remains a difficult task despite the
do not report such issues out of fear or because available legislation.
they are dependent on their abuser in some way.
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