The Conference of Religious Women India (CRWI), based on its suvey and findings, embarked on an important journey in collaboration with the renowned St. John's Medical College. This initiative aimed to nurture compassion and promoted proper care for religious elders. With careful consideration, the CRWI extended invitations to congregations nationwide. From this call, 30 dedicated sister nurses, representing 19 congregations across 22 states, were chosen as beacons of hope. These selected individuals gathered for a transformative 21-day on-site Training of Trainers (TOT) program, designed to equip them with specialised skills in geriatric care. It was held from 9th OCT 2023 to 29th OCT 2023.
The program's curriculum was meticulously crafted, interweaving theoretical knowledge, hands-on practical experiences, and enlightening field visits. Each component added depth and richness to the journey. Esteemed professors and experts from St. John’s Hospital imparted their wisdom on diverse topics, including the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE), nutritional therapy, and government welfare schemes for the elderly.
Participants had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the challenges and nuances of elderly care through immersive visits to various geriatric care settings. Notable visits included the Grama Hiviyara Kendra by TATA , an old age home run by the "Little Sisters of the Poor," and a Regional Resource and Care Training Centre for the Elderly, dedicated to dementia care. These experiences served as reminders of the important calling to serve with utmost compassion and respect.