Our fondest memories are of a carefree childhood, especially with grandparents. Their stories filled with wisdom and values, pampering with delicacies and unconditional love have not only given us a happy childhood, it has prepared us for life. Given a chance, most of us would like to serve them the way they looked after us and relive those special moments.

Unfortunately, all the elderly in our country are not so fortunate. Many families, from all walks of life, consider them to be a burden, both financially and with the care they require. There are horrific incidents of elderly parents being taken for a teertha yatra and abandoned at these holy places. For a moment, put yourself in their place and imagine being left destitute after a lifetime of sacrifices for one’s children and grandchildren. Not having the protection of a shelter, money or a friend at an age when even walking requires support.

Equally sad is the situation of the elderly held captive at home, being subjected to verbal and physical abuse, made to do the housework, deprived of food or even respect.

In India, the current life expectancy is about 69 years, which was around 47 years in 1970. The ratio of the elderly is increasing with respect to the  number of youth. This implies that a lesser number of youngsters will become responsible for a greater number of senior citizens.

It is time to take cognizance of the fact that our senior citizens are our responsibility. We need to gear up to give them the basic necessities of life, like food, shelter, medical care. However, this is merely sufficient for existence. Living a happy life comes with respect, appreciation, a sense of self-worth and emotional security which only family and friends can provide. Many of the elderly are willing to work voluntarily or for salaries enough to cover their livelihood costs. Most of them do not wish to become a burden on society or their families. All they need is an opportunity. What we have, is an opportunity to serve the elderly, to provide them with a secure and dignified life.

1 https://apo.who.int/publications/i/item/india-health-system-review

2 http://rchiips.org/nfhs/factsheet_NFHS-5.shtml

3 Population Projections for India and States 2011-2036; Report of Technical Group on Population Projections, Census of India 2020