INDIA: Seniors group all set for more healthy steps

. MUMBAI, Maharashtra / The Times of India / January 23, 2009 By Ranjani Rajendra, Times News Service For 23 years now, this group of senior citizens has been congregating in the northwest Mumbai suburb of Santacruz for their annual walkathon. Some of the regular participants include a 96-year-old retired police officer and an 88-year-old woman. The incentive - a chance to lead a healthier lifestyle and make new friends. What started as an endeavour by Dr Vasant Shenoy to help senior citizens realise the importance of regular walking, has now turned into one of the most anticipated events for geriatrics across the city. Over 200 participants attend the event. The walkathon next Sunday will be of 2km at their own pace. "We have tried to eliminate the competitive spirit here as we don't want the participants to get stressed over winning,'' said Dr Shenoy. The organisers ensure that medical practitioners and cardiologists are present at the venue. Taking it a step further, a cultural programme is organised a week after the walkathon for the participants. "Last year, a 68-year-old woman from Juhu danced to some of the latest Bollywood numbers. We also try and organise a health camp on the day of the get-together,'' he said. While many participants saw it as an opportunity to socialise, for 88-year-old Mangala Kulkarni, the walkathon proved to be therapeutic. Mangala, who had an active social life, isolated herself when her husband passed away more than 20 years ago. "My mother was depressed after my father's death. However, we managed to convince her to take part in this walkathon,'' said her son, Vijay. According to him, it was after participating in the walkathon that his mother realised that everyone was plagued with problems but it was optimism that helped them get by. For 96-year-old A N Moghul age is not a deterrent. The retired police officer has been enrolling every year for the past 20 years and this year he has managed to persuade his 76-year-old son to participate as well. Copyright © 2009 Bennett Coleman & Co. Ltd.