From Solitude to Sisterhood: How an 89-Year-Old is Creating a Haven for Elderly Women

 

Loneliness can be one of the most challenging aspects of growing older, but Kerala’s Karusseril N Thankamma has found a beautiful way to combat it. At 89 years old, she turned her personal loss into a mission to help others. After her husband’s passing in 2004, Thankamma decided to address the isolation many elderly women face by transforming her 200-year-old ancestral home in Kottayam into Manavodaya Pakalveedu, a daycare that fosters connection, purpose, and joy for senior women. Her story is a testament to the power of community and the incredible difference one person can make.

A Place for Companionship and Purpose
Thankamma, a retired teacher from NSS Upper Primary School, Thampalakkad, understood the challenges faced by elderly women when family members are occupied with their own lives. Her goal with Manavodaya Pakalveedu was to create a space where these women could enjoy companionship, participate in engaging activities, and find purpose.

Supported by her children, Sreekumar, Satheesh Kumar, and Geetha, who contributed to the renovation and promotion of the initiative, the daycare officially opened on Thankamma’s 84th birthday, October 11, 2017. It now accommodates 30 women, all above 60 years old, who spend their days in a nurturing and lively environment. A dedicated team of five staff members ensures the smooth functioning of the daycare, while Thankamma continues to lead with boundless energy and fresh ideas.

Empowerment Through Activities and Community
Manavodaya Pakalveedu offers a structured yet flexible schedule for its members. Each day starts with a pick-up service, followed by prayer, meditation, yoga, and breakfast. The women can then choose from a range of activities like packaging candles, incense sticks, detergents, or simply enjoying conversations, reading, farming, or playing games. The products made are sold locally to sustain the daycare, and all the profits are reinvested into the facility.

To ensure the well-being of its members, the daycare provides regular health check-ups through an on-site clinic staffed with a doctor, nurse, and lab technician. Additionally, the daycare organizes monthly family meetups, festive celebrations, and even an annual trip, fostering a vibrant and inclusive community.

Beyond offering care for senior women, the daycare empowers young women by employing them as staff members. This dual-purpose initiative not only combats loneliness among the elderly but also provides meaningful employment opportunities for the youth.

A Model of Inspiration and Sustainability
Thankamma’s efforts extend beyond companionship and empowerment. She has introduced free stitching classes at the daycare and recently inaugurated a computer center offering free coaching in MS Office and accounting. Her vision also includes promoting sustainable practices by encouraging the use of cloth bags as an alternative to plastic.

Thankamma’s dedication and the success of Manavodaya Pakalveedu owe much to the love and participation of the women who gather there. As one of the members, Padmakumari S, shares, “If not for Pakalveedu, I would be spending my days alone. Here, I have found immense happiness, support, and purpose.”

Discover the Joy of Companionship with Sukoon Unlimited
If stories like Thankamma’s inspire you, Sukoon Unlimited is the perfect place to find your own supportive community. Sukoon brings together seniors across India for friendship, care, and shared experiences. Whether it’s exploring hobbies, sharing stories, or simply finding companionship, Sukoon ensures every senior feels valued and cherished.

Join Sukoon Unlimited today and embark on a journey toward a brighter, happier future filled with connection and care.