Sisters of Charity of Nazareth are responding to a growing concern in Kerala, India. Many older adults now live alone as younger family members move to other cities or countries for work. In the village of Kallanode, Sisters opened Asa Nilayam Pakal Veedu, a day home that brings elders together for community, prayer, and recreation.
Founded in April 2023 by Sister Sheela Palamoottil, the center offers a welcoming place where older adults gather during the day for conversation, the rosary, light exercise, games, and a shared meal. The ministry began after Sisters visited homes in the parish and heard repeated stories of loneliness among aging parents whose children live abroad.
Today, Sisters Anice Vattukulam, Nisha Chemmanam, Gracy Thombrakudy, and Anne Philip care for 18 elders who attend the center. The program is free so that no one is excluded because of cost.
Kerala faces a rapid increase in its aging population. Studies show that nearly one in four residents could be older than 60 within the next decade. Many families rely on migration for employment, which leaves parents living on their own. Local church leaders say community efforts like the Sisters’ day home offer a compassionate response to this shift.
Participants say the center has renewed their daily routine. Laughter, shared prayer, and companionship have improved both emotional and physical well-being. For many, the day home has turned long and quiet days into moments of connection.
This ministry reflects the Church’s call to honor the dignity of older adults and care for those who may feel forgotten. By creating space for friendship and prayer, the Sisters help elders experience community and joy in their later years.