Pune: Loneliness in old age is a growing concern, especially with more children moving abroad for education and work, leaving their elderly parents alone. Addressing this issue, Madhav Damle, founder of ‘Happy Senior’, has facilitated the remarriage of 90 senior citizens, providing them with much-needed companionship. Many of these individuals are now living in live-in relationships, offering them emotional and social support.
A Movement Inspired by a Personal Experience
Madhav Damle has been working with senior citizens for over 12 years. He previously established an ashram in Wai to accommodate elderly individuals who were often left without strong social connections.
The idea of bringing elderly people together took shape after a disturbing incident. A senior citizen attempted to take his own life by consuming sleeping pills following an argument with his son. Fortunately, fellow residents rushed him to the hospital. However, when Damle called the man's children, they reacted angrily, further highlighting the isolation and neglect that many seniors face.
“That moment made me realize how difficult it is for senior citizens to live alone. This led to the idea of bringing them together to find companionship and support,” said Damle.
Live-In Relationships: A Practical Alternative
Understanding that remarriage is often a social taboo for senior citizens, Damle and his organization introduced live-in relationships as a viable option. In 2012, they established the Senior Citizens' Live-In Relationship Organization, setting up a structured approach for elderly individuals seeking companionship.
The process includes:
Background verification and medical checkups of interested individuals
Legal documentation to ensure security and transparency
A security deposit system for financially dependent women entering live-in relationships
Encouraging Social Interaction Among Seniors
Beyond companionship, Happy Senior conducts monthly group outings for senior citizens, creating a community where they can interact and build new friendships.