Augustinian Nuns and Laypeople Share a Home in Bengaluru to Combat Elderly Loneliness
In Thaverekere, a suburb of Bengaluru, the Augustinian Sisters operate Elizabeth Care Home, a unique facility where 11 retired nuns live alongside 52 elderly laypeople. This integrated model, distinct from the congregation’s other two centers, aims to provide companionship and mutual support rather than just medical care. Residents like 88-year-old Jessie Pai describe the environment as a family, engaging in shared activities such as quizzes and exercise. The home addresses the growing need for eldercare in India, where nuclear families and working spouses often leave older adults without full-time caregivers. While the arrangement fosters deep connections and reduces loneliness for both nuns and laypeople, it presents challenges, including noise from medical units and limited space for prayer. Administrators note that high costs and staffing shortages hinder the expansion of this model, despite high demand.