How many times have we asked ourselves, ‘When did I grow so old?’A question that sometimes worries us, a little too much. If the very thought of growing old can give us the jitters, then what about those who experience its pangs? What about the millions of elderly men and women who are deprived of family support, care and affection?
The phenomenon of ageing has become complex today. With the gradual disintegration of traditional family structures and the migration of younger generations to places far away, aged people find themselves all alone and have to fend for themselves.
We need to see ageing as a productive and gradual process. Retirement from one’s job doesn’t mean retirement from leading an active life.
Honestly, even money doesn’t guarantee them any comfort. Many senior citizens now opt for old age homes, if they can afford it. Some of them find themselves there against their will.
We should all visit an old age home and see for ourselves. Trust me; it could leave one heavy headed. The painful and helpless looks. The hopelessness and regret
The Government of India adopted the National Policy for Older Persons in 1999. The Policy takes a comprehensive view of the needs of the aged and assures them that their concerns are national concerns and that they will not live unprotected, ignored or marginalized lives. The State has realised the socio-economic implications of a rapidly ageing population on developing economies. Many schemes for financial and health benefits are being introduced. We shouldn’t hold the State completely responsible for taking care of our own parents, uncles and aunts.
Isn’t that our responsibility as well?
A few years ago, in school, I had to do a survey amongst the elderly residents of my neighbourhood. Initially, I was even embarrassed to walk into these houses. I thought I would find lonely people, waiting to pour out their sad tales. On the contrary, they more than welcomed my arrival. They didn’t rattle off their unfortunate incidents. Instead, I got to hear exciting details of children in top professions abroad, grandchildren doing well at school, dance, theatre and even of the tantrums that their pets throw! I was shown photographs of people whose names I can never recollect.
Suddenly, it didn’t seem all that embarrassing. It was comforting. The very same broody and tired looking people I otherwise see on the street, transformed into lively beings.
No. It isn’t always this sad or bad. Many a time, we hear about grandparents being an important part of their grandchildren’s social lives.
Doing what they enjoy the most.
In trying to keep pace with our own ‘modern’ and happening world and being obsessed with making more money, we have forgotten something very important.
