Governor’s Policy Address: Kerala cities to be gradually made age-friendly

The new program called “Care Cabin” will establish support centers in all district collection centers to provide legal aid, health care and protective services to the elderly. | Photo credit: Getty Images

On the heels of Kerala Chief Minister VD Satheesan announcing the creation of a dedicated department for the care of the elderly, said to be the first of its kind in the country, the state government has proposed that all cities in the state be gradually made elderly-friendly.

The Vayomithram scheme launched by the previous UDF government led by the late Oommen Chandy will be extended to all block panchayats to provide home health care and mental health support to the elderly, Governor Rajendra Arlekar said in an address to the assembly on Friday.

The new program called “Care Cabin” will establish support centers in all district collection centers to provide legal aid, health care and protective services to the elderly.

The government is proposing to expand Smrithi cafes, dementia day care centers and specialist memory clinics across the state to tackle the rising incidence of cognitive impairment and dementia. Awareness programs for middle-aged people are planned.

Census of the disabled

The government has emphasized its commitment to ensure the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 and has proposed to revise the Kerala State Policy on Persons with Disabilities, 2015 by delineating the responsibilities of ministries, agencies and local government institutions.

A nationwide “disability census” and a comprehensive online registry will be created to strengthen planning and service delivery.

Published – 29 May 2026 16:05 IST