'Sahjeevan' Community Events: Promoting Healthy Ageing and Caregiving Through Intergenerational Engagement in Rural India.

Abstract

Population ageing is an emerging public health priority that extends beyond medical care to include social inclusion, caregiving and community participation, particularly in rural settings. India is undergoing a rapid demographic transition, with a growing elderly population facing challenges related to social isolation, declining family support and limited access to age-friendly services. In response, the Enhancing Living Experiences of the Elderly initiative was implemented across 100 villages in the rural Wardha district to promote healthy, active and dignified ageing through self-care and intergenerational engagement. As part of this initiative, culturally rooted community gatherings - locally termed Sahjeevan Melawas (hereafter, 'Sahjeevan events') - were organized to address ageism, strengthen intergenerational relationships and translate training into community action. These events were embedded within the primary health care system and implemented through partnerships with health workers, local governance structures, schools and community groups. Older adults were positioned as active participants, mentors and caregivers rather than passive beneficiaries. A total of 30 community events were conducted, engaging approximately 1,800 older adults, 800 children and 169 Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHAs). The events facilitated health screening, self-care education, recreational and creative activities, and intergenerational interaction. Observed outcomes included high participation, improved health awareness, enhanced social connectedness and strengthened community ownership. This paper presents a community-engaged, practice-based model that demonstrates how participatory community platforms can promote healthy ageing, challenge ageist norms and support caregiving in rural contexts.