In the remote highlands of Upper Mustang, where altitude, terrain, and isolation often pose challenges to healthcare access, the Nexus Institute of Research and Innovation (NIRI) recently took a significant step toward improving the lives of senior citizens. From May 13–14, 2025, NIRI, with the support of the Kalasha Foundation, Switzerland, organized a comprehensive two-day training program on senior citizen care for Female Community Health Volunteers (FCHVs) in Lomanthang Rural Municipality—a region nestled at 4,000 meters above sea level.

Part of a Larger Research Initiative

This training forms a vital component of an ongoing research project led by Dr. Tulasi Acharya, Director of Social Sciences at NIRI. The project is focused on assessing the quality of life of senior citizens in Lomanthang through a population-wide survey. The insights gathered are expected to inform evidence-based policies for aging populations in high-altitude rural settings.

Training Highlights

The training brought together all 27 FCHVs from the five wards of the municipality, alongside research assistants and local government representatives. Dr. Puspa Mani Kharal, General Physician and Project Manager at NIRI, and Mr. Suraj Parajuli, Administrative Officer and Co-Investigator led it.

The sessions covered:

• Emergency response skills: including how to handle cases of suffocation, acute heart attacks, urinary retention, and abdominal pain
• Observation of physical and cognitive health indicators: such as skin color, body posture, alertness, and exhaustion
• Basic Life Support (BLS) techniques, including Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
• Community engagement activities: the team visited households, provided general health check-ups to senior citizens, and explained the research objectives
• Effective communication with elderly community members

For all FCHVs, this was their first-ever training in Basic Life Support—an important milestone in building grassroots capacity.

Voices from the Field

“It is important to conduct research on senior citizens to learn from their life experiences. In remote areas like Lomanthang, their needs and stories are unique,” said Mr. Suraj Parajuli, Co-Investigator. “This initiative helps us assess their quality of life and generate meaningful policy recommendations. It benefits both older and younger generations.”

Dr. Puspa Mani Kharal, training lead and Co-Investigator, added, “We were truly encouraged by the active participation of the FCHVs and the effective coordination from Lomanthang Rural Municipality.”

Dr. Serena Hartmann, President of the Kalasha Foundation, expressed appreciation for the dedication shown by the FCHVs and their commitment to senior care.

Mr. Tenzing Norbu Gurung, Public Health Coordinator of Lomanthang Rural Municipality, highlighted the importance of such research for evidence-based policymaking, particularly in high-altitude regions.

Mr. Tashi Norbu Gurung, Chairperson of Lomanthang Rural Municipality, applauded NIRI’s effort and reaffirmed the local government’s commitment to support this initiative.

A Commitment to Inclusion and Health Equity

The training concluded with a certificate distribution ceremony, acknowledging the hard work and dedication of the FCHVs. More than just a training, this initiative represents a commitment to bridging healthcare gaps and amplifying the voices and needs of Nepal’s aging population in one of its most remote corners.