LAHORE, Nov 11: The Aafiat (security) is the name rightly given to a welfare institution located in the Township area of the provincial metropolis to provide solace and comfort to the old and infirm people, many of whom usually feel secluded in the joint family system of a household.

The people attracted to the institution set up within the precinct of the social welfare complex in 1976 usually make use of the facility extended to those hapless people who, while staying at home, seem to be overpowered by a sense of deprivation and want some one to have an interaction and constant communication with.

It has a capacity to accommodate 50 people but the facility is availed not by more than 30 at a time. There is a separate arrangement for accommodating old women.

This institution is one of six such units located in the complex which serve people suffering from various disabilities, physical as well as mental.

Run and managed by the Punjab social welfare department, its day-to-day expenses are met through donations.

The purpose outlined for the setting up of such an institution was to provide shelter to the old people who at an advanced age, exceptions apart, find themselves neglected by their own family members.

The objectives which were aimed at while setting up the institution included the provision of institutional care, free boarding and lodging and medical facilities, besides recreational and reading facilities to senior citizens.

It has generally been observed that the people admitted to the institution do have contacts with their family members but prefer to remain there.

The Aafiat at present shares a portion with another institution called Nasheman. Those seeking admission to it required to fulfil certain conditions, that is, the applicant should be above 55 years, having no shelter and a source of income. The applicant should be a Pakistani national and physically and mentally fit and free from any chronic and infectious disease. The final approval for their admission to the institution lies with a managing committee which comprises departmental officials and people belonging to voluntary organizations.