When stressed or blocked it is wise to make a change so that we don't stay in that place. Yet, many times we forget some of the simple things that we can do for ourselves, quickly and easily to bring our inspiration back and increase our creativity.
1. If you usually type your speech first , hand write them.Nothing compares to seeing the ink mesh into the paper and display what you created.
2. If you spend too much time at the computer , take a break every hour. Go for a walk or just sit outside in the sun.Even five minutes in a winter sun does wonders for a mood and creativity.
3. Flip through magazines or books. Their colors and ideas will give you sparks and switch your attitude. Blue and green can reduce your stress levels by 30% or more.
4. Add strong smells to the room. Light scented candles around you, visit the fruit isle at the grocery store, or go to a store that is heavily scented. Find an orange or strawberries and smell it. Both will change a mood or create inspiration. Smells awaken your creativity. Smell strigger memories and are a great method to rekindle stories from the past.
5. Go see or rent an inspirational movie . Relaxation time is important. Watch the movie with a notebook and record inspiring phases or ideas that pop in.
6. Read a book on the topic that stirs and sparks your creativity. Poetry can do the same.
7. Look at bold and bright colors for a few minutes. These change your mood.
8. Talk with a friend about your topic to flesh out ideas,titles, and content. Tape-record the conversation so you don't miss anything. You would be surprised at how much we think we hear and how we actually do.
9. Write an email to a friend to tell him or her what you want to accomplish. If you are stuck, say so and ask for help.
10. Check in with your vibrational energy and do something to switch it into high gear. Take a shower. Go for a walk or dance naked in the moonlight.
11. Hire someone to transcribe your recording so that you can stay focused on the creative end of the speaking
12. Authentic, flat-out, raw laughter frees the psyche and opens the creativity process.
13. Find a setting with lots of trees and flowers and feel nature. If the weather permits, take off your shoes and socks and feel the grass between your toes. Nature has away of freeing our spirit to let the flow out of our best material.
14. If you are used to practicing your speak in a quiet place, create noise and practice. You will learn to speak with distractions.
15. Go for a quiet leisurely drive and practice your vowel soutlook expand your voice range.
Source: http://online-articles.org/public-speaking/site-map.php
Forget yourself for others, and others will never forget you.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
SBI’s reverse mortgage loan from October 12
State Bank of India announced the launch of ‘SBI Reverse Mortgage Loan’, a product that will allow senior citizens to avail themselves of funds by mortgaging their residential property.
The product will be offered by all branches of SBI from October 12, the bank said here in a statement.
Senior citizens above the age of 60 years, who own and occupy a house, can avail themselves of loans, released in monthly or quarterly instalments or as a lump sum payment at the beginning, against the security of the house.
The loan will be given jointly if the spouse is alive, provided he/she is above 58 years of age, the bank said.
During their lifetime, the borrower does not have to pay the loan and will continue to stay in their house. Thereafter, either the legal heirs can repay the loan and redeem the property or the bank will sell the property and liquidate the loan. Surplus, if any, will be passed on to the legal heirs.
The loan carries a fixed interest rate of 10.75 per cent annually subject to reset at the end of every five years along with revaluation of security and re-adjustment of loan instalments, if necessary. For a loan of Rs. 1 lakh, the monthly payment to the borrower on a ten-year loan is Rs. 468 and on a 15-year loan it would be Rs. 225.
Similarly, for a loan of Rs. 1 lakh, the quarterly payment to the borrower on a 10-year loan is Rs. 1,423 and on a 15-year loan it would be Rs. 687, the bank said.
Eligible:
Senior citizens who own and occupy a house are eligible.
Loan Interest details:
Loan carries a fixed interest rate of 10.75 p.c.
For Rs. 1 lakh loan, monthly payment will be Rs. 468
Source: http://www.allindiabanks.com/?p=246
Forget yourself for others, and others will never forget you.
The product will be offered by all branches of SBI from October 12, the bank said here in a statement.
Senior citizens above the age of 60 years, who own and occupy a house, can avail themselves of loans, released in monthly or quarterly instalments or as a lump sum payment at the beginning, against the security of the house.
The loan will be given jointly if the spouse is alive, provided he/she is above 58 years of age, the bank said.
During their lifetime, the borrower does not have to pay the loan and will continue to stay in their house. Thereafter, either the legal heirs can repay the loan and redeem the property or the bank will sell the property and liquidate the loan. Surplus, if any, will be passed on to the legal heirs.
The loan carries a fixed interest rate of 10.75 per cent annually subject to reset at the end of every five years along with revaluation of security and re-adjustment of loan instalments, if necessary. For a loan of Rs. 1 lakh, the monthly payment to the borrower on a ten-year loan is Rs. 468 and on a 15-year loan it would be Rs. 225.
Similarly, for a loan of Rs. 1 lakh, the quarterly payment to the borrower on a 10-year loan is Rs. 1,423 and on a 15-year loan it would be Rs. 687, the bank said.
Eligible:
Senior citizens who own and occupy a house are eligible.
Loan Interest details:
Loan carries a fixed interest rate of 10.75 p.c.
For Rs. 1 lakh loan, monthly payment will be Rs. 468
Source: http://www.allindiabanks.com/?p=246
Forget yourself for others, and others will never forget you.
More Health Cover Options for Senior Citizens!
Senior citizens may soon have more choices to pick for their health insurance cover. Oriental Insurance has filed a specific health insurance product for senior citizens with the insurance regulator (IRDA). Oriental is the third public sector general insurance company to look at such a product after National and New India Assurance. While National Insurance launched its product last year, New India launched its product in October this year.
It is expected that IRDA, the regulatory body for the insurance business, will approve the Oriental product shortly. Speaking on the sidelines of a seminar, chairman and managing director, M Ramadoss, said that the product would have a maximum sum assured of Rs 2 lakh. Ramadoss also added that the product would cover a longer list of specific diseases. ‘‘The product will be a co-payment cashless product (where the insured person shares a proportion of the claim).
The entry age would be 60 while the coverage will be available till the age of 85,” said Ramadoss. Although, Ramadoss did not divulge exact details, he said the plan would cover pre-existing diseases after a period 2-3 years. New India’s new product offers a maximum sum assured of Rs 1.5 lakh and the entry age of 60 years with the cover available till the age of 80. New India’s policy for senior citizens covers pre-existing diseases after 18 months. The premium for the age bracket of 60-65 years for Rs 1 lakh is Rs 3,850.
Ramadoss also added that given the huge loss ratios arising of group health policies, the company had refused to write business of Rs 70 crore this year. ‘‘It was the business that we had written last year. This year, however, we refused to write it becuase of the inappropriate pricing,’’ he added. Ramadoss said that he expected the premium growth of the company to be around 5% by the financial year end. Until now, however, growth has been more or less flat. Other general insurance companies also expect profitability to be affected post detariffing. After the launch of their revamped mediclaim product last year, Oriental has seen a drop in the premium growth rate. During Last financial year, there had been a 40% growth in premiums in health insurance.
Source: http://aimoney.blogspot.com/2007/10/more-health-cover-options-for-senior.html
Forget yourself for others, and others will never forget you.
It is expected that IRDA, the regulatory body for the insurance business, will approve the Oriental product shortly. Speaking on the sidelines of a seminar, chairman and managing director, M Ramadoss, said that the product would have a maximum sum assured of Rs 2 lakh. Ramadoss also added that the product would cover a longer list of specific diseases. ‘‘The product will be a co-payment cashless product (where the insured person shares a proportion of the claim).
The entry age would be 60 while the coverage will be available till the age of 85,” said Ramadoss. Although, Ramadoss did not divulge exact details, he said the plan would cover pre-existing diseases after a period 2-3 years. New India’s new product offers a maximum sum assured of Rs 1.5 lakh and the entry age of 60 years with the cover available till the age of 80. New India’s policy for senior citizens covers pre-existing diseases after 18 months. The premium for the age bracket of 60-65 years for Rs 1 lakh is Rs 3,850.
Ramadoss also added that given the huge loss ratios arising of group health policies, the company had refused to write business of Rs 70 crore this year. ‘‘It was the business that we had written last year. This year, however, we refused to write it becuase of the inappropriate pricing,’’ he added. Ramadoss said that he expected the premium growth of the company to be around 5% by the financial year end. Until now, however, growth has been more or less flat. Other general insurance companies also expect profitability to be affected post detariffing. After the launch of their revamped mediclaim product last year, Oriental has seen a drop in the premium growth rate. During Last financial year, there had been a 40% growth in premiums in health insurance.
Source: http://aimoney.blogspot.com/2007/10/more-health-cover-options-for-senior.html
Forget yourself for others, and others will never forget you.
NGC comes to Mumbai to hunt for India's Superkid
As part of the National Geographic Channel's hunt for India's superkid, Nat Geo Junior Hunt 2 City Finals was organised at 'Ryan International School' today.
The city finals infused with a host of exciting activities culminated with Jemin Shah (Standard VI) from Ryan International School and Anchal Samtani (Standard VIII), from J.B. Wacha High School emerging as the winners who will represent Mumbai at the next level of the unique programme.
Nat Geo Junior Hunt 2 is the second chapter of the channel's hugely successful nationwide school engagement programme. It is the quest for the best, a 'Nat Geo Junior' who is curious, adventurous, articulate, energetic and smart, in short an all-rounder. National Geographic Channel has partnered with Max New York Life to provide this unique platform for kids to showcase their brilliance through a stimulating and invigorating learning experience.
Rajesh Sheshadri, Vice-president, Marketing, National Geographic Channel India said "Through this initiative we are looking for the brightest, smartest and the coolest Indian kid who likes his books as much as sports, likes to learn and discover new things, is adventurous, out-going and ready to take on challenges. Nat Geo's endeavour is to stimulate the intellect of our young audiences to 'Think again' and encourage them to learn more about the world they live in, while enjoying the experience."
Debashis Sarkar, Director, Marketing, Product Management and Corporate Affairs, Max New York Life said "National Geographic Channel has an outstanding reach among children; through this partnership Max New York Life gets an opportunity to reach out to the larger audience of children and their parents and help them in realising their dreams by enabling them to have a secure future. India is a young country and through this initiative we hope to make certain that this young India is financially safer and more secure."
The hunt spans across 10 cities covering 400 reputed schools and has received great response with approximately 4,00,000 kids between 11-14 years of age participating in the first round. Out of these, 500 kids in each city made it to the city finals, which are being organised in the respective cities.
Source: http://www.televisionpoint.com/news2007/newsfullstory.php?id=1193045302
Forget yourself for others, and others will never forget you.
The city finals infused with a host of exciting activities culminated with Jemin Shah (Standard VI) from Ryan International School and Anchal Samtani (Standard VIII), from J.B. Wacha High School emerging as the winners who will represent Mumbai at the next level of the unique programme.
Nat Geo Junior Hunt 2 is the second chapter of the channel's hugely successful nationwide school engagement programme. It is the quest for the best, a 'Nat Geo Junior' who is curious, adventurous, articulate, energetic and smart, in short an all-rounder. National Geographic Channel has partnered with Max New York Life to provide this unique platform for kids to showcase their brilliance through a stimulating and invigorating learning experience.
Rajesh Sheshadri, Vice-president, Marketing, National Geographic Channel India said "Through this initiative we are looking for the brightest, smartest and the coolest Indian kid who likes his books as much as sports, likes to learn and discover new things, is adventurous, out-going and ready to take on challenges. Nat Geo's endeavour is to stimulate the intellect of our young audiences to 'Think again' and encourage them to learn more about the world they live in, while enjoying the experience."
Debashis Sarkar, Director, Marketing, Product Management and Corporate Affairs, Max New York Life said "National Geographic Channel has an outstanding reach among children; through this partnership Max New York Life gets an opportunity to reach out to the larger audience of children and their parents and help them in realising their dreams by enabling them to have a secure future. India is a young country and through this initiative we hope to make certain that this young India is financially safer and more secure."
The hunt spans across 10 cities covering 400 reputed schools and has received great response with approximately 4,00,000 kids between 11-14 years of age participating in the first round. Out of these, 500 kids in each city made it to the city finals, which are being organised in the respective cities.
Source: http://www.televisionpoint.com/news2007/newsfullstory.php?id=1193045302
Forget yourself for others, and others will never forget you.
Sports Branding: Reebok India Sponsors All Athletes from Grass Roots to Elite
Go big or go home. This is the theme that Reebok India has weaved throughout the 12 years that it has existed. Currently, there are 525 Reebok stores in different parts of the country, but the goal is for 1000 by the end of 2009. Not only is Reebok creating its corporate image through retail stores, it sponsors over 40 elite players in addition to providing athletic programs (to the left) to the buyers. But that is not all. In recent news, Reebok has announced that it wants to sponsor players from the grass root level and make the merchandise available to individuals living in tier III cities (suburban or rural neighborhoods). I believe that Reebok’s strategic marketing plan will create a unique brand for the company which will result in major profits not only in the short run but also the long run.
Reebok in the beginning started off as a small company in India, but has slowly unveiled into one of the dominant markets in India. With a corporate image of sports merchandise, it positioned itself toward the target audience of athletic males, but as time went on, the media stirred more attention to the sports world. According to Rediff.com columnist, Meenakshi Radhakrishnan-Swami, Reebok’s mind thought was to "Ask not what percentage of an existing market your brand can achieve. Ask how large a market your brand can create by putting resources behind creating a category." One of the most important skills for valuable marketing is powerful branding. By making a unique name for the company, people will remember it. Therefore, Reebok slowly began to change its positioning and target not only men, but also women and children. Now the company’s products are open to a wider range audience.
With a large consumer base, Reebok took it another step further to expose the corporate image of the company. Reebok India managing director Subhinder Singh Prem (to the right) explained that the focus for Reebok “is on promoting sports and fitness by sponsoring various sport icons and teams in India. The objective behind this initiative is to develop a new genre of sports and fitness enthusiasts making immense sense for a brand that is synonymous to sports and fitness gear such as footwear, apparel and equipment” This is an important point because in order to make a brand stand out it has to be incorporated into a person’s daily routine. Reebok India has done so by introducing a women’s and children’s collection as well as training individuals to become fitness instructors. As a result, Reebok has created a new fitness trend in India.
In recent news, Reebok announced that it was looking to sponsor cricket athletes from the grass root level. Prem said that “this program will not be limited to Ranji trophy players (below) but also target cricketing talents in tier III cities who may not grow for lack of resources.” By doing so, Reebok India is exposing itself to an even wider audience. The company is awarding those players who have unique talent and deserve attention but may not be able to afford to participate in the distinguished programs. Therefore, Reebok India is establishing its brand as a well rounded athletic company that cares about all athletes by making sure that those athletes that have talent receive that attention receive it. In doing so, the sports franchise becomes more exciting and more individuals become interested and find ways to become a part of it whether it is through attending games or buying memorabilia. This leads to higher sales and more exposure for the sports franchise.
I believe that Reebok India is an excellent example of marketing in the sports business. The company specifically focuses on the consumers by spending $100 million dollars annually on research and development. Even though that money could be spent on sponsoring another athlete or investing in another store, this is a smart move because Reebok knows exactly what consumers think of the products and what they will buy. As well, by including athletes from the grass root level, it shows no bias, but rather it is presenting itself as a company that values all the talent and effort that is put into sports. Therefore, with companies creating a variety of different products, the key to differentiation is branding.
Source : http://sportsmarketingplanet-ch.blogspot.com/2007/10/sports-branding-reebok-india-sponsors.html
Forget yourself for others, and others will never forget you.
Reebok in the beginning started off as a small company in India, but has slowly unveiled into one of the dominant markets in India. With a corporate image of sports merchandise, it positioned itself toward the target audience of athletic males, but as time went on, the media stirred more attention to the sports world. According to Rediff.com columnist, Meenakshi Radhakrishnan-Swami, Reebok’s mind thought was to "Ask not what percentage of an existing market your brand can achieve. Ask how large a market your brand can create by putting resources behind creating a category." One of the most important skills for valuable marketing is powerful branding. By making a unique name for the company, people will remember it. Therefore, Reebok slowly began to change its positioning and target not only men, but also women and children. Now the company’s products are open to a wider range audience.
With a large consumer base, Reebok took it another step further to expose the corporate image of the company. Reebok India managing director Subhinder Singh Prem (to the right) explained that the focus for Reebok “is on promoting sports and fitness by sponsoring various sport icons and teams in India. The objective behind this initiative is to develop a new genre of sports and fitness enthusiasts making immense sense for a brand that is synonymous to sports and fitness gear such as footwear, apparel and equipment” This is an important point because in order to make a brand stand out it has to be incorporated into a person’s daily routine. Reebok India has done so by introducing a women’s and children’s collection as well as training individuals to become fitness instructors. As a result, Reebok has created a new fitness trend in India.
In recent news, Reebok announced that it was looking to sponsor cricket athletes from the grass root level. Prem said that “this program will not be limited to Ranji trophy players (below) but also target cricketing talents in tier III cities who may not grow for lack of resources.” By doing so, Reebok India is exposing itself to an even wider audience. The company is awarding those players who have unique talent and deserve attention but may not be able to afford to participate in the distinguished programs. Therefore, Reebok India is establishing its brand as a well rounded athletic company that cares about all athletes by making sure that those athletes that have talent receive that attention receive it. In doing so, the sports franchise becomes more exciting and more individuals become interested and find ways to become a part of it whether it is through attending games or buying memorabilia. This leads to higher sales and more exposure for the sports franchise.
I believe that Reebok India is an excellent example of marketing in the sports business. The company specifically focuses on the consumers by spending $100 million dollars annually on research and development. Even though that money could be spent on sponsoring another athlete or investing in another store, this is a smart move because Reebok knows exactly what consumers think of the products and what they will buy. As well, by including athletes from the grass root level, it shows no bias, but rather it is presenting itself as a company that values all the talent and effort that is put into sports. Therefore, with companies creating a variety of different products, the key to differentiation is branding.
Source : http://sportsmarketingplanet-ch.blogspot.com/2007/10/sports-branding-reebok-india-sponsors.html
Forget yourself for others, and others will never forget you.
OLD AGE, HOUSE DESIGN AND LAND USE PLANNING
Aging is natural in all living organisms including human beings. Although the situation differs from country to country, and from the developed to the developing world, the proportion and numbers of population that are living long is increasing. Overall, life expectancy has increased with increased control on diseases, better nutrition, less burdensome work and more knowledge on the sources and agents of aging as well as a generally more healthy life. Only a few weeks ago, it was World Elderly Day, where the society is urged to ponder on how to address the needs of the older members of society. We may wish to recall that Year 1999 was designated the International Year of Older persons.
Every month the world’s older population increases by 1.2 million. By 2020, 1.4 billion persons will be over 60 years old, and increase of 240 percent since 1980. The fastest growth of the older population is in the developing world. By 2025, and despite the HIV/AIDS pandemic, world-wide life expectancy is expected to reach 73 years, a 50 percent increase on the on the 1955 average of only 48 years. The ageing population has therefore to be taken into consideration in socio economic development plans, including housing and infrastructure. This article questions whether in house design and land use plans in Tanzania, the needs of the aged are taken into consideration.
In the industrialised world, there is an approach that divides population into three categories of productivity: the pre-productive population that is children and adolescents; the productive population, also known as the economically active population; and the post-productive group, sometimes referred to as old age pensioners. Broadly speaking, the latter are those who are sixty years old or above. In the traditional rural African society, the extended family used to take care of both the children and the elderly. Indeed the elderly were usually considered to be good nannies, who would moreover instil a sense of responsibility into the children as they grew up. Things are changing and in some societies, the ever-growing proportion of the elderly population is seen as a burden on the economically active population. Usually the elderly are ‘warehoused’ in quasi-institutional buildings called old peoples’ homes, which are usually in undesirable locations, segregated from the rest of the community. In such situations, older persons seem to be relegated to a state of animated suspension between the community and the graveyard. Fortunately such a situation has not arisen in Tanzania, but who knows; we might get there if precautionary measures are not taken.
As we are urbanising and construct modern houses it is important to be aware that we too are aging and/or are looking after the elderly. In many houses in urban areas, it is common to find there in a lone old person who has been forced to leave his/her rural setting to come and live with relatives (usually children) since the support that used to exist in rural areas is no longer there. These people are left on their own with nobody to talk to for days on end. They hate the television that is put before them. They look back with nostalgia to the good life back in the rural areas to which they cannot practically go back to. Given the demands of modern life, the relatives usually come home late, tired, and have no time to talk to their elderly population, which moreover is forced to live in a gated environment where neighbour does not know neighbour. They would be happy to till some land and produce something for the family; yet our planning believes in concrete jungles. It is therefore important that as we plan our houses and our urban land uses we consider the needs of the elderly as well.
In many African cities, those who are well endowed put up large mansions with as many rooms as the number of children and expected members of the extended family. Such mansions are a burden in old age since the children do go away. Households do go through phases. Young persons have small households, which grow when they marry and raise a family. In old age, the household becomes small once more. In designing houses, it should be possible to incorporate aspects of changes in the size of households. Older people cannot maintain huge houses. If these could be converted at some point in time so that the extra space is rented out, this could give not only income to the older population, but it could provide some badly needed company.
The older people suffer from a many of ailments a good number of them related to wear and tear coming with age. Stiff joints for example make squatting toilets sometimes a torture for the older populations. These could be designed in such a way that they are comfortable for the older people to use. Steep staircases are surely another torture for the older populations. Houses could be designed in such a way that, as one grows older, one lives on ground floors. The same idea applies to blocks of flats without lifts. Old people would find it very difficult to walk up the stair to reach their flat several storeys from the ground; although there could be those who would argue that such an activity provides body exercise for the elderly.
It is becoming clear by the day that old persons are an untapped resource. Many of the most important contributions to society have been made by people after their 60th birthday. Older people must be seen as part of the solution rather than just another problem. We have many examples of people who retire from one institution on account of the chronological numbers of age, but who get employed elsewhere and continue with a very productive life. There are many activities, which the elderly can carry out at a fraction of the cost, and which would give them a continued sense of belonging.
In designing land uses, we have in this column complained about the lack of, or the privatisation of public open spaces. Old people badly need to get out of those prisons called houses, to walk about and enjoy fresh air, and if they so feel have somewhere to sit and ruminate or talk to others. This points to the importance of open spaces, which are safe, and well looked after. Our concepts that open spaces are children’s play grounds is reflective of the fact that we do not take into considerations the needs of the poor. Old people too need open spaces, need well-kept gardens provided with seats where they can sit and enjoy nature. Old people too need places where they can exercise, such as walking or jogging without fearing for their safety.
Time has come for the professions related to property design and land use planning to consider the increasing number of old people in society’s midst and provide for them. When celebrating the International Day of the aged next year, why not deliberate on how the old persons can comfortably be accommodated in our houses, and neighbourhoods, as well as making them useful members of society?
By Lusungu Kironde
Source: http://www.dailynews-tsn.com/page.php?id=9170
Forget yourself for others, and others will never forget you.
Every month the world’s older population increases by 1.2 million. By 2020, 1.4 billion persons will be over 60 years old, and increase of 240 percent since 1980. The fastest growth of the older population is in the developing world. By 2025, and despite the HIV/AIDS pandemic, world-wide life expectancy is expected to reach 73 years, a 50 percent increase on the on the 1955 average of only 48 years. The ageing population has therefore to be taken into consideration in socio economic development plans, including housing and infrastructure. This article questions whether in house design and land use plans in Tanzania, the needs of the aged are taken into consideration.
In the industrialised world, there is an approach that divides population into three categories of productivity: the pre-productive population that is children and adolescents; the productive population, also known as the economically active population; and the post-productive group, sometimes referred to as old age pensioners. Broadly speaking, the latter are those who are sixty years old or above. In the traditional rural African society, the extended family used to take care of both the children and the elderly. Indeed the elderly were usually considered to be good nannies, who would moreover instil a sense of responsibility into the children as they grew up. Things are changing and in some societies, the ever-growing proportion of the elderly population is seen as a burden on the economically active population. Usually the elderly are ‘warehoused’ in quasi-institutional buildings called old peoples’ homes, which are usually in undesirable locations, segregated from the rest of the community. In such situations, older persons seem to be relegated to a state of animated suspension between the community and the graveyard. Fortunately such a situation has not arisen in Tanzania, but who knows; we might get there if precautionary measures are not taken.
As we are urbanising and construct modern houses it is important to be aware that we too are aging and/or are looking after the elderly. In many houses in urban areas, it is common to find there in a lone old person who has been forced to leave his/her rural setting to come and live with relatives (usually children) since the support that used to exist in rural areas is no longer there. These people are left on their own with nobody to talk to for days on end. They hate the television that is put before them. They look back with nostalgia to the good life back in the rural areas to which they cannot practically go back to. Given the demands of modern life, the relatives usually come home late, tired, and have no time to talk to their elderly population, which moreover is forced to live in a gated environment where neighbour does not know neighbour. They would be happy to till some land and produce something for the family; yet our planning believes in concrete jungles. It is therefore important that as we plan our houses and our urban land uses we consider the needs of the elderly as well.
In many African cities, those who are well endowed put up large mansions with as many rooms as the number of children and expected members of the extended family. Such mansions are a burden in old age since the children do go away. Households do go through phases. Young persons have small households, which grow when they marry and raise a family. In old age, the household becomes small once more. In designing houses, it should be possible to incorporate aspects of changes in the size of households. Older people cannot maintain huge houses. If these could be converted at some point in time so that the extra space is rented out, this could give not only income to the older population, but it could provide some badly needed company.
The older people suffer from a many of ailments a good number of them related to wear and tear coming with age. Stiff joints for example make squatting toilets sometimes a torture for the older populations. These could be designed in such a way that they are comfortable for the older people to use. Steep staircases are surely another torture for the older populations. Houses could be designed in such a way that, as one grows older, one lives on ground floors. The same idea applies to blocks of flats without lifts. Old people would find it very difficult to walk up the stair to reach their flat several storeys from the ground; although there could be those who would argue that such an activity provides body exercise for the elderly.
It is becoming clear by the day that old persons are an untapped resource. Many of the most important contributions to society have been made by people after their 60th birthday. Older people must be seen as part of the solution rather than just another problem. We have many examples of people who retire from one institution on account of the chronological numbers of age, but who get employed elsewhere and continue with a very productive life. There are many activities, which the elderly can carry out at a fraction of the cost, and which would give them a continued sense of belonging.
In designing land uses, we have in this column complained about the lack of, or the privatisation of public open spaces. Old people badly need to get out of those prisons called houses, to walk about and enjoy fresh air, and if they so feel have somewhere to sit and ruminate or talk to others. This points to the importance of open spaces, which are safe, and well looked after. Our concepts that open spaces are children’s play grounds is reflective of the fact that we do not take into considerations the needs of the poor. Old people too need open spaces, need well-kept gardens provided with seats where they can sit and enjoy nature. Old people too need places where they can exercise, such as walking or jogging without fearing for their safety.
Time has come for the professions related to property design and land use planning to consider the increasing number of old people in society’s midst and provide for them. When celebrating the International Day of the aged next year, why not deliberate on how the old persons can comfortably be accommodated in our houses, and neighbourhoods, as well as making them useful members of society?
By Lusungu Kironde
Source: http://www.dailynews-tsn.com/page.php?id=9170
Forget yourself for others, and others will never forget you.
Wanted Sponsor for participation in National Championship
A newly formed Organisation working in the community in Mumbai (intialy) for less fortunate youths and children's to Promote Sport in India, is participating in National Championship.They are promoting New sport in India for the benefit of the community.
Last time this team won 2nd place and this time this enthusiastic boys are ready to pick up the National Trophy.But due to lack of support and funds their Dream is in danger.
We request Individuals,companies to come forward to Sponsor this Training Camp and Participation in the championship.Each contribution will make a huge difference.The camp will be held for approx two months.Starting from 1st Nov 2007.
The Total cost for this is programme is approx Rs.One Lakh.This includes Training cost,coaching,kits,special diet,travelling etc.
Join hands to help us develop and promote excellence in sports in India.
Our dream is to see this and more community children's Team playing for India in International Championship and that can be fulfilled only with your support.
This Organisation is ''Not for Profit" one of its kind of in India that will train children's in sports, in a scientific and professional environment and with guarantee improvement.
With your support let "Chak De India" once again...............................
Pls contact Urgently : people4sc@gmail.com
Forget yourself for others, and others will never forget you.
Last time this team won 2nd place and this time this enthusiastic boys are ready to pick up the National Trophy.But due to lack of support and funds their Dream is in danger.
We request Individuals,companies to come forward to Sponsor this Training Camp and Participation in the championship.Each contribution will make a huge difference.The camp will be held for approx two months.Starting from 1st Nov 2007.
The Total cost for this is programme is approx Rs.One Lakh.This includes Training cost,coaching,kits,special diet,travelling etc.
Join hands to help us develop and promote excellence in sports in India.
Our dream is to see this and more community children's Team playing for India in International Championship and that can be fulfilled only with your support.
This Organisation is ''Not for Profit" one of its kind of in India that will train children's in sports, in a scientific and professional environment and with guarantee improvement.
With your support let "Chak De India" once again...............................
Pls contact Urgently : people4sc@gmail.com
Forget yourself for others, and others will never forget you.
Monday, October 22, 2007
Preliminary report of Prevalence study on Alzheimer's in India
Alzheimer’s disease was the most common cause of dementia in the elderly population and around 3 per cent of elderly people have dementia. This was the preliminary finding of a study done on a random sampling of elderly people over 65 years in Thrissur district.
Out of the total number of dementia cases in the study, 63 per cent was caused by Alzheimer’s disease while 30 per cent was bracketed as vascular dementia, which was caused by blocks in the blood supply to the brain. Diagnosis by exclusion was the tool used to arrive at a conclusion.
Loss of memory was generally categorised as dementia. While dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease is irreversible, other types of dementia can be arrested with proper treatment and care.
The study was a programme taken up by the Kochi-based Centre for Survey Research and Management Studies as part of an Indian Council of Medical Research project. Dr. Jacob Roy, chairman of the Alzheimer’s and Related Disorders Society of India (ARDSI), psychiatrist Dr. S. Shaji, and bio-statistician Dr. T. Sugathan were the investigators in the project.
The field sampling by Dr. Shaji was a combination of rural and urban population, which included four panchayats, three municipalities and the Corporation area. Punnayurkulam, Orumanayur, Chelakkara, and Payanannur were the four rural areas while Chalakudy, Kodungallor and Irinjalakuda were the three municipalities.
880 people underwent diagnosis in the rural area while in the urban area it was 1320. According to Dr. Shaji, there was high incidence of dementia in Chalakudy with 6 per cent, while in most other places the numbers indicated around 3 per cent. It was also found that more women were affected by dementia, he said. A similar study was done around two years ago in some of the wards of the Kochi Corporation area, which had revealed a similar conclusion. At that time, it was found that 53 per cent of dementia cases were because of Alzheimer’s disease.
Source : http://www.hindu.com/2007/10/22/stories/2007102261020300.htm
Forget yourself for others, and others will never forget you.
Out of the total number of dementia cases in the study, 63 per cent was caused by Alzheimer’s disease while 30 per cent was bracketed as vascular dementia, which was caused by blocks in the blood supply to the brain. Diagnosis by exclusion was the tool used to arrive at a conclusion.
Loss of memory was generally categorised as dementia. While dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease is irreversible, other types of dementia can be arrested with proper treatment and care.
The study was a programme taken up by the Kochi-based Centre for Survey Research and Management Studies as part of an Indian Council of Medical Research project. Dr. Jacob Roy, chairman of the Alzheimer’s and Related Disorders Society of India (ARDSI), psychiatrist Dr. S. Shaji, and bio-statistician Dr. T. Sugathan were the investigators in the project.
The field sampling by Dr. Shaji was a combination of rural and urban population, which included four panchayats, three municipalities and the Corporation area. Punnayurkulam, Orumanayur, Chelakkara, and Payanannur were the four rural areas while Chalakudy, Kodungallor and Irinjalakuda were the three municipalities.
880 people underwent diagnosis in the rural area while in the urban area it was 1320. According to Dr. Shaji, there was high incidence of dementia in Chalakudy with 6 per cent, while in most other places the numbers indicated around 3 per cent. It was also found that more women were affected by dementia, he said. A similar study was done around two years ago in some of the wards of the Kochi Corporation area, which had revealed a similar conclusion. At that time, it was found that 53 per cent of dementia cases were because of Alzheimer’s disease.
Source : http://www.hindu.com/2007/10/22/stories/2007102261020300.htm
Forget yourself for others, and others will never forget you.
INTERNATIONAL SPORT DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT CONFIRMED FOR INDIA
UK Sport and the Government of India's Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sport signed a Memorandum of Understanding in New Delhi today which marks the start of an international sport development partnership that will reach thousands of school children and communities throughout India.
The agreement brings together national and international experts in the fields of development, physical education, sport development and sporting excellence to provide access to quality physical education and sport at community level and the development of pathways to excellence for elite athletes. This new commitment between both nations was sealed by Richard Stagg, British High Commissioner to India, and S. K. Arora, Secretary of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sport.
Today's ceremony was also attended by Mr Mani Shankar, the Government of India's Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, who is currently leading the finalising a new national sports policy:
"I am glad that the United Kingdom and India are embarking upon a joint venture the leverages sport for youth-led national development. By virtue of the multiple benefits that sports generate in the areas of education, public health, social inclusiveness, cultural identity and recreation, this initiative is strategically placed to achieve this objective", he said.
The partnership agreement offers both parties a unique opportunity to share best practice methods and expertise, while also allowing those involved in sport in the UK to keep up to date with the latest international developments.
UK Sport’s Head of Worldwide Impact, Debbie Lye, confirmed that as a sporting nation India has an important role to play internationally in youth development through sport and future legacy planning for the hosting of international sporting events:
“This agreement is a fantastic opportunity for the UK to work in partnership with a dynamic country that recognises the importance of a youth-led sports development approach. For a long time there has been a mutual desire to work together and, as Commonwealth Games hosts, both countries will be able to share learning and expertise to ensure that a social legacy can be delivered through the hosting of international events".
The programmes initiatives commenced this September with an inward visit to the UK by key organisations involved in physical education and school sport in India. This will be one of the first steps in supporting the programmes vision of developing sustainable and supportive systems within which children and young people of all abilities can enrich their lives by playing and excelling in sport.
International cooperation and development through sport is a key priority for UK Sport with a number of strategic long-term partnership agreements already in place with partner countries including China, Cuba, and South Africa.
Source: http://www.uksport.gov.uk/news/international_sport_development_agreement_confirmed_for_india/
Forget yourself for others, and others will never forget you.
The agreement brings together national and international experts in the fields of development, physical education, sport development and sporting excellence to provide access to quality physical education and sport at community level and the development of pathways to excellence for elite athletes. This new commitment between both nations was sealed by Richard Stagg, British High Commissioner to India, and S. K. Arora, Secretary of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sport.
Today's ceremony was also attended by Mr Mani Shankar, the Government of India's Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, who is currently leading the finalising a new national sports policy:
"I am glad that the United Kingdom and India are embarking upon a joint venture the leverages sport for youth-led national development. By virtue of the multiple benefits that sports generate in the areas of education, public health, social inclusiveness, cultural identity and recreation, this initiative is strategically placed to achieve this objective", he said.
The partnership agreement offers both parties a unique opportunity to share best practice methods and expertise, while also allowing those involved in sport in the UK to keep up to date with the latest international developments.
UK Sport’s Head of Worldwide Impact, Debbie Lye, confirmed that as a sporting nation India has an important role to play internationally in youth development through sport and future legacy planning for the hosting of international sporting events:
“This agreement is a fantastic opportunity for the UK to work in partnership with a dynamic country that recognises the importance of a youth-led sports development approach. For a long time there has been a mutual desire to work together and, as Commonwealth Games hosts, both countries will be able to share learning and expertise to ensure that a social legacy can be delivered through the hosting of international events".
The programmes initiatives commenced this September with an inward visit to the UK by key organisations involved in physical education and school sport in India. This will be one of the first steps in supporting the programmes vision of developing sustainable and supportive systems within which children and young people of all abilities can enrich their lives by playing and excelling in sport.
International cooperation and development through sport is a key priority for UK Sport with a number of strategic long-term partnership agreements already in place with partner countries including China, Cuba, and South Africa.
Source: http://www.uksport.gov.uk/news/international_sport_development_agreement_confirmed_for_india/
Forget yourself for others, and others will never forget you.
Malnutrition and Anaemia major problems in children and women
THE FINAL REPORT (third in the series) of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-3) 2005-06 was released recently by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. This report offers a comprehensive picture of the health, nutrition and population status in all 29 states of the country. The report paints a mixed picture of India’s overall reproductive health status. On the one hand, women are having fewer children and infant mortality has dropped in the seven-year period since the last NFHS survey in 1998-99. On the other hand, anaemia and malnutrition are still widespread among children and adults.
The NFHS survey is based on a sample of households that is representative at the national and state levels. It conducted interviews with around 2,00,000 women age 15-49 and men age 15-54 throughout India. NFHS-3 also tested more than 1,00,000 women and men for HIV and 2,15,000 adults and young children for anaemia. The data set on key indicators provides a trend that includes information on several new topics, such as HIV/AIDS related attitudes and behaviour, male involvement in family welfare and attitudes about family life and education for children in school.
Malnutrition and Anaemia major problem in children and women
Malnutrition continues to be a significant health problem for children and adults in India. While there have been some improvements in the nutritional status of young children in several states, nutritional deficiencies are still widespread. There has been the increase in wasting (excessively thin), or weight per height, among children under age 3 years. Around 23% of children were wasted. At the same time, there has been very marginal change in the percentage of children who are underweight (43% in NFHS-2 and 40% in NFHS-3).
NFHS-3 also found high prevalence of anaemia – 70% – in children aged 6-59 months. Anaemia in India is primarily linked to poor nutrition. Women and men suffer a dual burden of overnutrition and undernutrition. More than one‑third of women are too thin, while 13% are overweight or obese. In all, nearly half of the married women are either underweight or overweight. One-third of men are too thin, and 9% are overweight or obese. The states with the largest percentage of overweight women and men are Punjab, Kerala, and Delhi, especially among the more educated.
Anaemia is also disturbingly common among adults. More than half of women in India (55%) are anaemic. Anaemia among pregnant women has also increased. Even though men are much less likely women to be anaemic, anaemia levels in men are at around 24%.
Diarrhoea continues to be a major health problem for many children. Although knowledge about Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) for the treatment of diarrhoea is widespread among mothers, only 58% of children with diarrhoea were taken to a health facility, down from 65% seven years earlier.
The data not only presents the stark reality but is an urgent call to action. It is a call not only to make policies or programmes which are focussing on children and women, but also to allocate resources for all those proclamations and focus on implementation and monitoring of all that is proclaimed.
By : Anil Gulati
Source : http://www.merinews.com/
Forget yourself for others, and others will never forget you.
The NFHS survey is based on a sample of households that is representative at the national and state levels. It conducted interviews with around 2,00,000 women age 15-49 and men age 15-54 throughout India. NFHS-3 also tested more than 1,00,000 women and men for HIV and 2,15,000 adults and young children for anaemia. The data set on key indicators provides a trend that includes information on several new topics, such as HIV/AIDS related attitudes and behaviour, male involvement in family welfare and attitudes about family life and education for children in school.
Malnutrition and Anaemia major problem in children and women
Malnutrition continues to be a significant health problem for children and adults in India. While there have been some improvements in the nutritional status of young children in several states, nutritional deficiencies are still widespread. There has been the increase in wasting (excessively thin), or weight per height, among children under age 3 years. Around 23% of children were wasted. At the same time, there has been very marginal change in the percentage of children who are underweight (43% in NFHS-2 and 40% in NFHS-3).
NFHS-3 also found high prevalence of anaemia – 70% – in children aged 6-59 months. Anaemia in India is primarily linked to poor nutrition. Women and men suffer a dual burden of overnutrition and undernutrition. More than one‑third of women are too thin, while 13% are overweight or obese. In all, nearly half of the married women are either underweight or overweight. One-third of men are too thin, and 9% are overweight or obese. The states with the largest percentage of overweight women and men are Punjab, Kerala, and Delhi, especially among the more educated.
Anaemia is also disturbingly common among adults. More than half of women in India (55%) are anaemic. Anaemia among pregnant women has also increased. Even though men are much less likely women to be anaemic, anaemia levels in men are at around 24%.
Diarrhoea continues to be a major health problem for many children. Although knowledge about Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) for the treatment of diarrhoea is widespread among mothers, only 58% of children with diarrhoea were taken to a health facility, down from 65% seven years earlier.
The data not only presents the stark reality but is an urgent call to action. It is a call not only to make policies or programmes which are focussing on children and women, but also to allocate resources for all those proclamations and focus on implementation and monitoring of all that is proclaimed.
By : Anil Gulati
Source : http://www.merinews.com/
Forget yourself for others, and others will never forget you.
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