I am deeply grateful to the Indian Medical Association for honoring doctors on the occasion of Doctors’ Day, celebrated on 1st July. This recognition is a moment of pride and motivation for me. I am especially thankful to the Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Brijesh Pathak, for presenting me with this medal in acknowledgment of my dedication and contribution to the field of healthcare. Such encouragement strengthens my commitment to serving society with sincerity, compassion, and excellence in patient care. #BrijeshPathak#DoctorsDay#drabhishekshukla#aastha#aasthhospice#AasthaCares#IMA#lucknow
DOCTORS’ DAY 2026 The Doctor in Your Pocket: AI, Anxiety, and the Human Touch in Medicine By Dr. Abhishek Shukla Every year on 1st July, India celebrates Doctors’ Day to honour the great Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy — a doctor, teacher, and leader whose life stood for service to humanity. It is a day to thank doctors for standing by patients in times of fear, illness, and uncertainty. But in 2026, medicine is changing faster than ever before. One of the biggest reasons for this change is Artificial Intelligence, or AI. Today, before meeting a doctor, many people first turn to the “doctor” in their pocket — their mobile phone. They search their symptoms online, read articles, ask AI chatbots, and often come to the clinic with a ready-made diagnosis. In many ways, this is a positive change. Health information is now easier to access than ever before. A mother in a small town can quickly learn the warning signs of dengue. An elderly man living alone can use a wearable device to track his blood pressure or sugar levels. Families can understand diseases better and seek help earlier. AI has made healthcare information more available to the common person, and that is a powerful step forward. But there is another side to this story. Too much information without proper understanding can create unnecessary fear. As doctors, we are seeing more and more patients who are not just sick, but deeply anxious because of what they have read online. A simple headache can look like a brain tumour after a Google search. A mild cough may suddenly feel like lung cancer. A little chest discomfort can become a “heart attack” in the mind even before reaching the hospital. Recently, I met a young man who had been suffering from a stress-related headache. After spending hours reading online and asking AI platforms, he became convinced that he had a serious brain disease. After examination, the actual problem was simple — dehydration, lack of sleep, and stress. His real illness was not dangerous, but the fear created by information had become a much bigger problem. This is what I call “digital anxiety.” AI and internet platforms often show every possible disease linked to a symptom, but they cannot tell you which one is most likely. A trained doctor can. This often leads to unnecessary panic, extra tests, wasted money, and sometimes even wrong treatment. Another big change in healthcare today is the culture of ratings and reviews. Doctors are now often judged the same way people rate hotels or restaurants — with stars and online comments. While feedback is important, healthcare is much more complicated than that. A doctor treating very serious or high-risk patients may naturally have tougher outcomes than someone dealing only with simple cases. A doctor who speaks honestly about a difficult illness may receive a poor review because the truth is painful to hear. A doctor who refuses to give unnecessary antibiotics may be seen as “not doing enough,” even though that decision may actually protect the patient and society. This shows the limitation of online ratings — they often measure satisfaction, not quality. Yet this does not mean AI is bad. In fact, AI is one of the most powerful tools modern medicine has ever seen. It can detect cancers early, study scans quickly, find patterns in reports, and help doctors make faster decisions. In elderly care, AI has brought new hope. Smart watches can track heartbeats and oxygen levels. AI can help detect early signs of memory loss, dementia, or heart problems. Virtual assistants can remind older people to take medicines, and even offer companionship to reduce loneliness. In villages and small towns where doctors may not always be available, AI can become a bridge to healthcare. But even with all this progress, one truth remains unchanged — medicine is not just science; it is deeply human. A doctor does not only listen to symptoms. A doctor listens to fear, notices silence, reads body language, understands family problems, and senses emotions. Sometimes the real illness is hidden not in a test report, but in the life story of the patient. AI can study reports, but it cannot hold the hand of a frightened patient. It cannot comfort a worried family. It cannot understand loneliness, grief, or hope. That human connection is the soul of healing. On this Doctors’ Day, we must welcome technology, but also protect trust between doctors and patients. Use AI. Read. Ask questions. Stay informed. But do not let the internet decide your illness. Bring your doubts to your doctor and trust the trained mind and experienced heart sitting in front of you. Dr. B C Roy believed that medicine is both science and service — and that truth remains timeless. Technology will keep changing, but healing will always need something no machine can create: human understanding, compassion, and wisdom. That is the true strength of a doctor — and that is why doctors will always remain essential.
Honored to be in the company of my senior, Dr. Mayank Somani, CEO & Managing Director of Apollo medics Super Specialty Hospital, and Dr. Ankur Saxena, Director of Robotic Surgery at Apollo Hospitals. Grateful for their guidance, leadership, and dedication to advancing healthcare excellence. #drmayanksomani#appolomedicshospital#aasthahospice#drabhishekshukla#doctorslife#geriatrics
NEET Controversy: Who Pays the Price for These Leaks?
There was a time when competitive examinations in India were seen as sacred. Students believed that if they worked hard enough, sacrificed enough, and remained disciplined enough, the system would eventually reward merit. Today, unfortunately, that faith appears to be weakening. The recent controversy surrounding the NEET examination has once again exposed how fragile the system has become. For many people, it may appear to be just another news headline or another political debate. But for lakhs of students and their parents, it is a deeply personal tragedy.
As a doctor, I meet young people almost every day who dream of entering the medical profession. I have seen students preparing for NEET while dealing with anxiety, sleep deprivation, social isolation, and enormous emotional pressure. People often speak about the difficulty of the examination, but very few truly understand the lifestyle that comes with preparing for it. A NEET aspirant does not simply study. They put their entire life on hold. Many students spend two to three years following a strict routine. They wake up early, attend coaching classes for hours, return home exhausted, and continue studying late into the night. Birthdays are missed. Family functions are avoided. Vacations disappear. Friendships become limited. Even simple things like watching a movie without guilt become difficult because every minute starts feeling important.
Behind every student preparing for NEET, there is also a family making silent sacrifices. Parents spend lakhs of rupees on coaching institutes, books, online subscriptions, hostel accommodation, transportation, and test series. In middle-class households especially, this preparation often becomes the family’s biggest financial priority. Some parents postpone personal needs, delay medical treatment, avoid buying a new vehicle, or even take loans so that their child can prepare in the best possible environment.
And after all this, when reports of paper leaks emerge, what exactly are these students supposed to feel?
Anger? Helplessness? Betrayal?
The pain becomes even greater for those students who genuinely studied honestly. The hardworking student sitting quietly in a small room with books scattered around, the student who stayed away from distractions, the student who believed that sincerity still matters, that student suddenly begins questioning the system itself. One of the biggest concerns is the sheer scale at which these examinations are conducted. Lakhs of question papers are printed and transported across different states. The process involves printing agencies, packaging staff, transport personnel, storage facilities, administrators, examination centre authorities, invigilators, technical teams, and many others. At every stage, there are individuals who directly or indirectly gain access to sensitive material.
This raises an uncomfortable but necessary question, are we relying too heavily on outdated methods for examinations that decide the future of an entire generation? It only takes one weak link in the chain to compromise the credibility of the entire process. The unfortunate reality is that whenever such controversies happen, the guilty are often a small group, but the suffering is borne by millions of innocent students. A re-examination may sound like a practical solution on paper, but people forget the emotional and physical exhaustion attached to it. Students spend months preparing themselves mentally for one particular day. Once the exam is over, there is emotional release, fatigue, anxiety about results, and finally some degree of rest. To suddenly place them back into uncertainty is not a small matter.
Mental health among medical aspirants is already a serious concern in our country. Performance pressure, parental expectations, social comparison, fear of failure, and uncertainty regarding careers already weigh heavily on students. Incidents like paper leaks further deepen distrust and emotional burnout. The damage caused by these incidents goes beyond academics. It weakens confidence in institutions. It creates a dangerous belief among young people that honesty alone may not be enough. That is perhaps the most worrying consequence of all.
Medicine is not just another profession. Society places immense trust in doctors. A doctor is expected to make decisions with integrity, ethics, discipline, and responsibility. If the process through which future doctors are selected repeatedly faces allegations of corruption and leaks, then naturally people will begin questioning the credibility of the system itself. This is not the time for temporary statements or superficial reassurances. The country needs serious structural reforms in the examination process. Stronger digital security, stricter monitoring systems, accountability at every level, limited human access to sensitive material, advanced encryption methods, and transparent investigation mechanisms are no longer optional, they are essential.
Most importantly, students deserve respect.
Not sympathy on television debates. Not political arguments. Not blame games between agencies.
Respect for their effort.
A student preparing for NEET is not merely preparing for an entrance examination. In many ways, they are preparing to dedicate their life to the service of humanity. The least the system can offer them in return is fairness and trust. India has some of the brightest young minds in the world. Their dreams should not become victims of negligence, loopholes, or corruption. If we truly value merit and education, then protecting the integrity of examinations must become a national priority, not just after a controversy erupts, but permanently.
Every turn of the pedal is a step towards better health and a greener tomorrow. Cycling keeps us active, reduces our carbon footprint, and encourages a healthier lifestyle. It is an affordable, sustainable, and enjoyable way to stay fit while caring for the environment. Together, let’s create cleaner cities and healthier communities through cycling. 🚴♂️💚
Today, I had the opportunity to seek the blessings of Jagadguru Rambhadracharya Ji Maharaj. Meeting a person whose life has touched so many through his scholarship, spiritual teachings, and service to society was truly special. There was a sense of warmth, simplicity, and grace in his presence that is difficult to put into words. I feel fortunate to have received his blessings and carry with me the inspiration and positivity from this memorable interaction.
Congratulations to Dr. Shiv Sagar Gupta, Organising Secretary of RESPIRATION 2026, for successfully conducting an outstanding academic event. Important and highly relevant topics related to emergency and critical care medicine were discussed in depth, making the conference informative and enriching for all participants. Wishing continued success in future scientific endeavors.
Dr. Abhishek Shukla Invited by Government of India to Speak on Understanding the Care Economy : Financing the Long-Term Care (LTC) in New Delhi Lucknow: Dr. Abhishek Shukla, Founder & Secretary of Aastha Centre for Geriatric Medicine, Palliative Care Hospital & Hospice, Lucknow, has been invited by the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, to participate in a National-Level Workshop on “Creating a Well-Functioning Care Economy”. The workshop is being organized by the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre (DAIC), Janpath, New Delhi on 22nd May 2026. Senior experts, policymakers, professionals and stakeholders from across the country will participate in the deliberations focusing on strengthening the care economy sector in India. Recognizing his extensive contribution and experience in the field of geriatric medicine, palliative care, elderly rehabilitation and long-term care, Dr. Abhishek Shukla has been specially invited to share his valuable insights during the workshop discussions and breakout sessions. Aastha Centre for Geriatric Medicine, Palliative Care Hospital & Hospice has been actively working in the field of elderly care, dementia care, palliative care, rehabilitation and assisted living services for several years and has emerged as one of the leading institutions dedicated to compassionate and holistic elder care in the region. Dr. Shukla’s participation in this prestigious national workshop is being seen as an important recognition of the work being carried out by Aastha in the field of care services and elderly welfare.
How One Can Stay Healthy and Active in Old Age Old age is often seen as a phase of decline where the body weakens and life gradually slows down. This perception, though common, is incomplete. Ageing does bring changes, but it does not automatically mean loss of independence, vitality, or purpose. Many people continue to live active, fulfilling lives well into their later years. The difference lies largely in how health is cared for across daily life. Staying healthy in old age is less about extraordinary measures and more about consistent, mindful habits that support both the body and the mind. One of the most important pillars of healthy ageing is regular movement. Physical activity keeps muscles strong, joints flexible, and balance intact. As people grow older, there is a natural tendency to reduce movement due to fear of pain or falls. Unfortunately, inactivity causes faster muscle loss, stiffness, and weakness, making falls more likely rather than less. Simple activities like walking, stretching, light strength exercises, yoga, or swimming help maintain mobility and confidence. Strength training in particular plays a crucial role in preventing muscle loss, which is one of the leading causes of dependency in later life. The goal is not intense workouts but regular movement that becomes part of daily routine.
Nutrition is another critical factor in healthy ageing. As the body ages, appetite may reduce, but nutritional needs do not. In fact, the requirement for certain nutrients increases. Protein becomes especially important for maintaining muscle strength, immunity, and recovery. Many older adults consume diets that are low in protein without realizing the long term impact. A balanced diet with adequate protein from pulses, dairy, eggs, nuts, seeds, or lean meats supports physical strength. Fruits and vegetables provide essential vitamins and antioxidants that protect against chronic diseases. Whole grains and fiber support digestion and heart health, which are often areas of concern in old age. Hydration is frequently overlooked. Many elderly people reduce water intake to avoid frequent urination, which increases the risk of dehydration, confusion, constipation, and kidney problems. Drinking small amounts of water regularly throughout the day helps maintain overall body function. Sleep also plays a vital role in ageing well. Poor sleep is common in older adults but should not be accepted as inevitable. Sleep affects memory, mood, pain tolerance, and immunity. Maintaining a regular daily routine, staying active during the day, and getting exposure to natural daylight can improve sleep quality. Short daytime naps are fine, but excessive sleeping during the day may disrupt nighttime rest. Simple calming routines before bedtime such as reading, light stretching, or listening to music help prepare the mind for sleep. Mental health is equally important and often neglected. Cognitive activity keeps the brain engaged and resilient. Reading, solving puzzles, learning new skills, or even engaging in meaningful conversations stimulate the mind and help slow cognitive decline. Social interaction itself is a powerful mental exercise.
Loneliness, on the other hand, has a serious impact on both mental and physical health. Older adults who remain socially connected tend to have better emotional well being and lower risk of depression. Family interactions, community involvement, and friendships give a sense of belonging and purpose that is deeply protective. Mental health concerns such as persistent sadness, anxiety, or withdrawal should not be dismissed as a normal part of ageing. Emotional support and professional care can significantly improve quality of life at any age. Preventive healthcare is another key component of staying healthy in old age. Regular health checkups allow early detection of conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, vision or hearing problems, and memory changes. Managing these issues early helps prevent complications and maintains independence. Medication review is particularly important. Many elderly individuals take multiple medicines, sometimes for years without reassessment. Periodic review by a healthcare professional helps reduce unnecessary medications and side effects like dizziness or confusion. Beyond physical and mental health, having a sense of purpose strongly influences how people age. Older adults who feel valued and engaged often remain more active and positive. Purpose can come from caring for family members, volunteering, pursuing hobbies, spiritual practices, or simply being included in family decisions. Ageing well is not about avoiding all illness. It is about adapting wisely, staying engaged, and making choices that support function and dignity. Small consistent habits practiced over time have a far greater impact than drastic changes made late in life. Healthy and active ageing is achievable. With movement, balanced nutrition, mental engagement, social connection, and regular healthcare, old age can be a phase of strength, clarity, and fulfillment rather than limitation.
A Mother❤️ is the first home we ever know… the first prayer we ever hear… and the first hand that teaches us love, strength, and compassion.
Today, I feel grateful to celebrate the incredible women who make my world complete, my mother, whose blessings are my greatest strength, and my wife, Amita, whose love and care make our house a beautiful home for our children.
Watching generations of love together reminds me that family is life’s greatest blessing.
Happy Mother’s Day to every mother whose sacrifices often go unseen, but whose love shapes generations forever.#mothersdayspecial❤️ #mothercare#happymothersdaytoallmothers See less
Dr. Abhishek Shukla- Aastha Old Age Hospital
I am deeply grateful to the Indian Medical Association for honoring doctors on the occasion of Doctors’ Day, celebrated on 1st July. This recognition is a moment of pride and motivation for me. I am especially thankful to the Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Brijesh Pathak, for presenting me with this medal in acknowledgment of my dedication and contribution to the field of healthcare. Such encouragement strengthens my commitment to serving society with sincerity, compassion, and excellence in patient care. #BrijeshPathak #DoctorsDay #drabhishekshukla #aastha #aasthhospice #AasthaCares #IMA #lucknow
1 week ago | [YT] | 1,178
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Dr. Abhishek Shukla- Aastha Old Age Hospital
DOCTORS’ DAY 2026
The Doctor in Your Pocket: AI, Anxiety, and the Human Touch in Medicine
By Dr. Abhishek Shukla
Every year on 1st July, India celebrates Doctors’ Day to honour the great Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy — a doctor, teacher, and leader whose life stood for service to humanity. It is a day to thank doctors for standing by patients in times of fear, illness, and uncertainty. But in 2026, medicine is changing faster than ever before. One of the biggest reasons for this change is Artificial Intelligence, or AI. Today, before meeting a doctor, many people first turn to the “doctor” in their pocket — their mobile phone. They search their symptoms online, read articles, ask AI chatbots, and often come to the clinic with a ready-made diagnosis. In many ways, this is a positive change. Health information is now easier to access than ever before. A mother in a small town can quickly learn the warning signs of dengue. An elderly man living alone can use a wearable device to track his blood pressure or sugar levels. Families can understand diseases better and seek help earlier. AI has made healthcare information more available to the common person, and that is a powerful step forward.
But there is another side to this story. Too much information without proper understanding can create unnecessary fear. As doctors, we are seeing more and more patients who are not just sick, but deeply anxious because of what they have read online. A simple headache can look like a brain tumour after a Google search. A mild cough may suddenly feel like lung cancer. A little chest discomfort can become a “heart attack” in the mind even before reaching the hospital. Recently, I met a young man who had been suffering from a stress-related headache. After spending hours reading online and asking AI platforms, he became convinced that he had a serious brain disease. After examination, the actual problem was simple — dehydration, lack of sleep, and stress. His real illness was not dangerous, but the fear created by information had become a much bigger problem. This is what I call “digital anxiety.” AI and internet platforms often show every possible disease linked to a symptom, but they cannot tell you which one is most likely. A trained doctor can. This often leads to unnecessary panic, extra tests, wasted money, and sometimes even wrong treatment.
Another big change in healthcare today is the culture of ratings and reviews. Doctors are now often judged the same way people rate hotels or restaurants — with stars and online comments. While feedback is important, healthcare is much more complicated than that. A doctor treating very serious or high-risk patients may naturally have tougher outcomes than someone dealing only with simple cases. A doctor who speaks honestly about a difficult illness may receive a poor review because the truth is painful to hear. A doctor who refuses to give unnecessary antibiotics may be seen as “not doing enough,” even though that decision may actually protect the patient and society. This shows the limitation of online ratings — they often measure satisfaction, not quality. Yet this does not mean AI is bad. In fact, AI is one of the most powerful tools modern medicine has ever seen. It can detect cancers early, study scans quickly, find patterns in reports, and help doctors make faster decisions. In elderly care, AI has brought new hope. Smart watches can track heartbeats and oxygen levels. AI can help detect early signs of memory loss, dementia, or heart problems. Virtual assistants can remind older people to take medicines, and even offer companionship to reduce loneliness. In villages and small towns where doctors may not always be available, AI can become a bridge to healthcare.
But even with all this progress, one truth remains unchanged — medicine is not just science; it is deeply human. A doctor does not only listen to symptoms. A doctor listens to fear, notices silence, reads body language, understands family problems, and senses emotions. Sometimes the real illness is hidden not in a test report, but in the life story of the patient. AI can study reports, but it cannot hold the hand of a frightened patient. It cannot comfort a worried family. It cannot understand loneliness, grief, or hope. That human connection is the soul of healing. On this Doctors’ Day, we must welcome technology, but also protect trust between doctors and patients. Use AI. Read. Ask questions. Stay informed. But do not let the internet decide your illness. Bring your doubts to your doctor and trust the trained mind and experienced heart sitting in front of you. Dr. B C Roy believed that medicine is both science and service — and that truth remains timeless. Technology will keep changing, but healing will always need something no machine can create: human understanding, compassion, and wisdom. That is the true strength of a doctor — and that is why doctors will always remain essential.
1 week ago | [YT] | 262
View 8 replies
Dr. Abhishek Shukla- Aastha Old Age Hospital
Honored to be in the company of my senior, Dr. Mayank Somani, CEO & Managing Director of Apollo medics Super Specialty Hospital, and Dr. Ankur Saxena, Director of Robotic Surgery at Apollo Hospitals. Grateful for their guidance, leadership, and dedication to advancing healthcare excellence. #drmayanksomani #appolomedicshospital #aasthahospice #drabhishekshukla #doctorslife #geriatrics
1 week ago | [YT] | 1,006
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Dr. Abhishek Shukla- Aastha Old Age Hospital
NEET Controversy: Who Pays the Price for These Leaks?
There was a time when competitive examinations in India were seen as sacred. Students believed that if they worked hard enough, sacrificed enough, and remained disciplined enough, the system would eventually reward merit. Today, unfortunately, that faith appears to be weakening. The recent controversy surrounding the NEET examination has once again exposed how fragile the system has become. For many people, it may appear to be just another news headline or another political debate. But for lakhs of students and their parents, it is a deeply personal tragedy.
As a doctor, I meet young people almost every day who dream of entering the medical profession. I have seen students preparing for NEET while dealing with anxiety, sleep deprivation, social isolation, and enormous emotional pressure. People often speak about the difficulty of the examination, but very few truly understand the lifestyle that comes with preparing for it. A NEET aspirant does not simply study. They put their entire life on hold. Many students spend two to three years following a strict routine. They wake up early, attend coaching classes for hours, return home exhausted, and continue studying late into the night. Birthdays are missed. Family functions are avoided. Vacations disappear. Friendships become limited. Even simple things like watching a movie without guilt become difficult because every minute starts feeling important.
Behind every student preparing for NEET, there is also a family making silent sacrifices. Parents spend lakhs of rupees on coaching institutes, books, online subscriptions, hostel accommodation, transportation, and test series. In middle-class households especially, this preparation often becomes the family’s biggest financial priority. Some parents postpone personal needs, delay medical treatment, avoid buying a new vehicle, or even take loans so that their child can prepare in the best possible environment.
And after all this, when reports of paper leaks emerge, what exactly are these students supposed to feel?
Anger? Helplessness? Betrayal?
The pain becomes even greater for those students who genuinely studied honestly. The hardworking student sitting quietly in a small room with books scattered around, the student who stayed away from distractions, the student who believed that sincerity still matters, that student suddenly begins questioning the system itself. One of the biggest concerns is the sheer scale at which these examinations are conducted. Lakhs of question papers are printed and transported across different states. The process involves printing agencies, packaging staff, transport personnel, storage facilities, administrators, examination centre authorities, invigilators, technical teams, and many others. At every stage, there are individuals who directly or indirectly gain access to sensitive material.
This raises an uncomfortable but necessary question, are we relying too heavily on outdated methods for examinations that decide the future of an entire generation? It only takes one weak link in the chain to compromise the credibility of the entire process. The unfortunate reality is that whenever such controversies happen, the guilty are often a small group, but the suffering is borne by millions of innocent students. A re-examination may sound like a practical solution on paper, but people forget the emotional and physical exhaustion attached to it. Students spend months preparing themselves mentally for one particular day. Once the exam is over, there is emotional release, fatigue, anxiety about results, and finally some degree of rest. To suddenly place them back into uncertainty is not a small matter.
Mental health among medical aspirants is already a serious concern in our country. Performance pressure, parental expectations, social comparison, fear of failure, and uncertainty regarding careers already weigh heavily on students. Incidents like paper leaks further deepen distrust and emotional burnout. The damage caused by these incidents goes beyond academics. It weakens confidence in institutions. It creates a dangerous belief among young people that honesty alone may not be enough. That is perhaps the most worrying consequence of all.
Medicine is not just another profession. Society places immense trust in doctors. A doctor is expected to make decisions with integrity, ethics, discipline, and responsibility. If the process through which future doctors are selected repeatedly faces allegations of corruption and leaks, then naturally people will begin questioning the credibility of the system itself. This is not the time for temporary statements or superficial reassurances. The country needs serious structural reforms in the examination process. Stronger digital security, stricter monitoring systems, accountability at every level, limited human access to sensitive material, advanced encryption methods, and transparent investigation mechanisms are no longer optional, they are essential.
Most importantly, students deserve respect.
Not sympathy on television debates. Not political arguments. Not blame games between agencies.
Respect for their effort.
A student preparing for NEET is not merely preparing for an entrance examination. In many ways, they are preparing to dedicate their life to the service of humanity. The least the system can offer them in return is fairness and trust. India has some of the brightest young minds in the world. Their dreams should not become victims of negligence, loopholes, or corruption. If we truly value merit and education, then protecting the integrity of examinations must become a national priority, not just after a controversy erupts, but permanently.
1 month ago | [YT] | 213
View 13 replies
Dr. Abhishek Shukla- Aastha Old Age Hospital
Every turn of the pedal is a step towards better health and a greener tomorrow.
Cycling keeps us active, reduces our carbon footprint, and encourages a healthier lifestyle.
It is an affordable, sustainable, and enjoyable way to stay fit while caring for the environment.
Together, let’s create cleaner cities and healthier communities through cycling. 🚴♂️💚
1 month ago | [YT] | 240
View 4 replies
Dr. Abhishek Shukla- Aastha Old Age Hospital
Today, I had the opportunity to seek the blessings of Jagadguru Rambhadracharya Ji Maharaj. Meeting a person whose life has touched so many through his scholarship, spiritual teachings, and service to society was truly special. There was a sense of warmth, simplicity, and grace in his presence that is difficult to put into words. I feel fortunate to have received his blessings and carry with me the inspiration and positivity from this memorable interaction.
#JagadguruRambhadracharya #Blessings #SpiritualWisdom #Gratitude #DivineGrace #SanatanDharma #FaithAndService #IndianSpirituality #Blessed #DrAbhishekShukla #AasthaCares #Inspiration #Guidance #Humbled #Lucknow #DrAbhishekShukla
1 month ago | [YT] | 601
View 43 replies
Dr. Abhishek Shukla- Aastha Old Age Hospital
Congratulations to Dr. Shiv Sagar Gupta, Organising Secretary of RESPIRATION 2026, for successfully conducting an outstanding academic event. Important and highly relevant topics related to emergency and critical care medicine were discussed in depth, making the conference informative and enriching for all participants. Wishing continued success in future scientific endeavors.
1 month ago | [YT] | 677
View 13 replies
Dr. Abhishek Shukla- Aastha Old Age Hospital
Dr. Abhishek Shukla Invited by Government of India to Speak on Understanding the Care Economy : Financing the Long-Term Care (LTC) in New Delhi
Lucknow: Dr. Abhishek Shukla, Founder & Secretary of Aastha Centre for Geriatric Medicine, Palliative Care Hospital & Hospice, Lucknow, has been invited by the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, to participate in a National-Level Workshop on “Creating a Well-Functioning Care Economy”.
The workshop is being organized by the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre (DAIC), Janpath, New Delhi on 22nd May 2026. Senior experts, policymakers, professionals and stakeholders from across the country will participate in the deliberations focusing on strengthening the care economy sector in India.
Recognizing his extensive contribution and experience in the field of geriatric medicine, palliative care, elderly rehabilitation and long-term care, Dr. Abhishek Shukla has been specially invited to share his valuable insights during the workshop discussions and breakout sessions.
Aastha Centre for Geriatric Medicine, Palliative Care Hospital & Hospice has been actively working in the field of elderly care, dementia care, palliative care, rehabilitation and assisted living services for several years and has emerged as one of the leading institutions dedicated to compassionate and holistic elder care in the region.
Dr. Shukla’s participation in this prestigious national workshop is being seen as an important recognition of the work being carried out by Aastha in the field of care services and elderly welfare.
1 month ago | [YT] | 322
View 21 replies
Dr. Abhishek Shukla- Aastha Old Age Hospital
How One Can Stay Healthy and Active in Old Age
Old age is often seen as a phase of decline where the body weakens and life gradually slows down. This perception, though common, is incomplete. Ageing does bring changes, but it does not automatically mean loss of independence, vitality, or purpose. Many people continue to live active, fulfilling lives well into their later years. The difference lies largely in how health is cared for across daily life. Staying healthy in old age is less about extraordinary measures and more about consistent, mindful habits that support both the body and the mind.
One of the most important pillars of healthy ageing is regular movement. Physical activity keeps muscles strong, joints flexible, and balance intact. As people grow older, there is a natural tendency to reduce movement due to fear of pain or falls. Unfortunately, inactivity causes faster muscle loss, stiffness, and weakness, making falls more likely rather than less. Simple activities like walking, stretching, light strength exercises, yoga, or swimming help maintain mobility and confidence. Strength training in particular plays a crucial role in preventing muscle loss, which is one of the leading causes of dependency in later life. The goal is not intense workouts but regular movement that becomes part of daily routine.
Nutrition is another critical factor in healthy ageing. As the body ages, appetite may reduce, but nutritional needs do not. In fact, the requirement for certain nutrients increases. Protein becomes especially important for maintaining muscle strength, immunity, and recovery. Many older adults consume diets that are low in protein without realizing the long term impact. A balanced diet with adequate protein from pulses, dairy, eggs, nuts, seeds, or lean meats supports physical strength. Fruits and vegetables provide essential vitamins and antioxidants that protect against chronic diseases. Whole grains and fiber support digestion and heart health, which are often areas of concern in old age.
Hydration is frequently overlooked. Many elderly people reduce water intake to avoid frequent urination, which increases the risk of dehydration, confusion, constipation, and kidney problems. Drinking small amounts of water regularly throughout the day helps maintain overall body function. Sleep also plays a vital role in ageing well. Poor sleep is common in older adults but should not be accepted as inevitable. Sleep affects memory, mood, pain tolerance, and immunity. Maintaining a regular daily routine, staying active during the day, and getting exposure to natural daylight can improve sleep quality.
Short daytime naps are fine, but excessive sleeping during the day may disrupt nighttime rest. Simple calming routines before bedtime such as reading, light stretching, or listening to music help prepare the mind for sleep. Mental health is equally important and often neglected. Cognitive activity keeps the brain engaged and resilient. Reading, solving puzzles, learning new skills, or even engaging in meaningful conversations stimulate the mind and help slow cognitive decline. Social interaction itself is a powerful mental exercise.
Loneliness, on the other hand, has a serious impact on both mental and physical health. Older adults who remain socially connected tend to have better emotional well being and lower risk of depression. Family interactions, community involvement, and friendships give a sense of belonging and purpose that is deeply protective. Mental health concerns such as persistent sadness, anxiety, or withdrawal should not be dismissed as a normal part of ageing. Emotional support and professional care can significantly improve quality of life at any age.
Preventive healthcare is another key component of staying healthy in old age. Regular health checkups allow early detection of conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, vision or hearing problems, and memory changes. Managing these issues early helps prevent complications and maintains independence. Medication review is particularly important. Many elderly individuals take multiple medicines, sometimes for years without reassessment. Periodic review by a healthcare professional helps reduce unnecessary medications and side effects like dizziness or confusion.
Beyond physical and mental health, having a sense of purpose strongly influences how people age. Older adults who feel valued and engaged often remain more active and positive. Purpose can come from caring for family members, volunteering, pursuing hobbies, spiritual practices, or simply being included in family decisions. Ageing well is not about avoiding all illness. It is about adapting wisely, staying engaged, and making choices that support function and dignity. Small consistent habits practiced over time have a far greater impact than drastic changes made late in life.
Healthy and active ageing is achievable. With movement, balanced nutrition, mental engagement, social connection, and regular healthcare, old age can be a phase of strength, clarity, and fulfillment rather than limitation.
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Dr. Abhishek Shukla- Aastha Old Age Hospital
A Mother❤️ is the first home we ever know… the first prayer we ever hear… and the first hand that teaches us love, strength, and compassion.
Today, I feel grateful to celebrate the incredible women who make my world complete, my mother, whose blessings are my greatest strength, and my wife, Amita, whose love and care make our house a beautiful home for our children.
Watching generations of love together reminds me that family is life’s greatest blessing.
Happy Mother’s Day to every mother whose sacrifices often go unseen, but whose love shapes generations forever.#mothersdayspecial❤️ #mothercare #happymothersdaytoallmothers See less
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