Often, I go for an evening jog in the park right outside my house. It is filled with people of all shapes and sizes, but more importantly, all ages. I have noticed that most of the elderly individuals are independent, even though they might rely on a walking stick or some such. Today, there was a lady who caught my eye. She must have been in her late 70s or early 80s and walking quite slowly. With her was a helper, whose only job was to accompany her, lest she need any help. Even though I felt sorry for her, I was quite impressed by her spirit.
The concept of a “joint family” is fast fading in urban India. Also, with a significant amount of young population migrating away from home, I am sure there is going to be a great demand for such helpers. Unfortunately, India is not as well prepared as many of the western countries, when it comes to old age care. Most of the aging people are left to fend off for themselves.
Beyond a certain age, people do need help with chores. But, what they really need is another person….to just, be there. As someone recently mentioned, for most of them, other than their physician, they don’t even experience the touch of another human being for months.
I have seen a lot of criticism against children who are unable to stay, with or close to their aging parents. In my opinion, the problem is not as black and white as some people perceive it. And there is definitely no easy solution either. As much as it hurts and bothers us, my generation gets over it by conveniently blaming it on “destiny” (albeit, secretly harboring the fear that one day, we are going to be in their shoes).
One question that lingers in my mind – With all the medical advances, the longevity has definitely increased. But, is it really worth it?
The concept of a “joint family” is fast fading in urban India. Also, with a significant amount of young population migrating away from home, I am sure there is going to be a great demand for such helpers. Unfortunately, India is not as well prepared as many of the western countries, when it comes to old age care. Most of the aging people are left to fend off for themselves.
Beyond a certain age, people do need help with chores. But, what they really need is another person….to just, be there. As someone recently mentioned, for most of them, other than their physician, they don’t even experience the touch of another human being for months.
I have seen a lot of criticism against children who are unable to stay, with or close to their aging parents. In my opinion, the problem is not as black and white as some people perceive it. And there is definitely no easy solution either. As much as it hurts and bothers us, my generation gets over it by conveniently blaming it on “destiny” (albeit, secretly harboring the fear that one day, we are going to be in their shoes).
One question that lingers in my mind – With all the medical advances, the longevity has definitely increased. But, is it really worth it?
