ICA India Team

Ms. Thapliyal is the Director of HelpAge India, an organization that caters to the specific healthcare needs associated with old age and including Alzheimer’s disease. Nearly 70% of elders in India live in rural areas; 33% lie in areas vulnerable to natural disasters; and 93% of elders are living in the unorganized sector. The unorganized sector is characterized by lack of financial, food & social security. It is also characterized by the lack of statutory safeguards in adversity requiring these individuals to work until they die. HelpAge India pioneered and successfully implemented a model of sustainable age care for rural elders using a two-pronged approach to address vulnerability and preparedness (encompassing welfare, development and rights).

Advocacy is one of the strongest tools for impact and change. ICA is about advocacy, education and training – information and networking with ICA team members from around the world.