Kerala Offices Get Elder-Friendly Makeover

Kerala has introduced India's first Elder-Friendly Office Certification (EFOC), a scheme by the Department of Senior Citizens' Welfare designed to enhance the experience of senior citizens in government offices and public institutions.

The certification addresses prevalent challenges faced by the elderly, such as navigating long queues, stairs without support, and small-print forms. Modeled after successful initiatives in Sharjah and the US, EFOC establishes technical standards for accessibility, drawing from national guidelines.

Offices will be evaluated across five domains: building accessibility (30%), service delivery (25%), staff training and conduct (20%), communication (15%), and participation (10%). Compulsory requirements include step-free entry, a ground-floor toilet, and a priority queue.

Ratings will be awarded as Gold (85%+ score), Silver (70-84%), and Bronze (60-69%, provisional). Gold certificates are valid for five years, while Silver also lasts five years. Bronze certificates are valid for two years, pending re-inspection.

A pilot project will commence within six months, selecting one office from each of Kerala's 14 districts. The scheme will expand in subsequent years to include various government offices, hospitals, and eventually private institutions on a voluntary, paid basis.

Certified offices will receive a plaque and a digital certificate with a QR code, listed on a public registry. Gold-rated offices will gain priority in Silver Economy programme schemes.