The Aswasakiranam Scheme provides monthly financial support to family members or relatives who are caregivers for physically Read More... and mentally disabled bedridden patients. Read less
Details
Kerala is known for its robust healthcare, but providing effective home care, especially for low-income families, has been a challenge. Many families struggle to afford hospitalisation and prefer home-based care for bedridden patients. This often means family members become informal caregivers, taking on a significant burden without much recognition.
The Aswasakiranam Scheme aims to support these informal caregivers. It provides financial assistance to individuals who are looking after physically and mentally disabled patients confined to their homes. The scheme acknowledges the crucial role these caregivers play and offers them monthly monetary help.
This scheme is for individuals who dedicate their time and effort to care for bedridden family members. These patients might be suffering from various conditions, including mental disabilities, blindness, cancer, or other debilitating illnesses that render them immobile and dependent on others for daily activities.
Caring for a bedridden patient is a demanding task, both emotionally and physically. For families with limited financial resources, this burden can be immense. The Aswasakiranam Scheme helps ease this financial strain by providing a monthly allowance to caregivers, enabling them to manage their own needs while continuing to provide essential care to their loved ones. It also offers retrospective assistance for those who have been caregiving since August 2, 2010.
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Benefits
Sources and references
Application forms for the Aswasakiranam Scheme can be downloaded from the official website or obtained from the nearest Anganwadi or ICDS office. Please ensure all required documents are submitted with the application.
What specific diseases are covered under the Aswasakiranam Scheme?
The scheme covers all bedridden patients requiring a full-time caregiver. This includes individuals with mental challenges like Autism, Cerebral Palsy, mental retardation, and mental illness. It also covers patients who are 100% blind, bedridden cancer patients, elderly bedridden individuals, and those with brittle bone disease.
How much financial assistance do caregivers get through Aswasakiranam?
Caregivers receive a monthly financial assistance of Rs 600 for looking after their physically and mentally bedridden patients.
Can I get the application form online?
Yes, you can download the application form online. You can also get it from the nearest Anganwadi or ICDS office.
What is the main goal of the Aswasakiranam Scheme?
The primary goal of the Aswasakiranam Scheme is to provide financial assistance to family members or relatives who act as caregivers for physically and mentally disabled bedridden patients.
Who is eligible to receive benefits under this scheme?
Eligibility includes patients who are entirely bedridden at home due to a debilitating physical, functional, or mental disability, and cannot manage daily activities independently. Their family must also be listed under the Below Poverty Line (BPL) category.
Does the scheme offer assistance for caregiving services provided in the past?
Yes, the scheme provides monthly assistance with retrospective effect to all citizens who have been providing caregiving services to patients since August 2, 2010.
Besides the patient's pension, is there any other financial aid?
Yes, the financial assistance provided to caregivers under this scheme is separate from any pension the patient might be receiving.
What documents are needed for the Aswasakiranam application?
You will need a medical certificate from a government-authorised doctor. Additionally, an attested copy of the patient's BPL ration card or BPL certificate, or an income certificate, is required. An attested copy of the Aadhaar card or its confirmation slip is also necessary.