When we define the term, Aging with Dignity, it denotes the treatment the aging persons require in a way that is much respectful of them and as valued individuals for the elderly, dignity is almost equal to the quality of life in old age and some older adults even pay more attention to dignity than to life. The truth about ageing is that we have not yet built an adequate knowledge base to respond to its multifarious challenges. The lack of guarantees for the dignity of older adults in long-term care facilities can lead to depression and can even accelerate death.
As we are well aware of the fact that many people leave elderly people at once due to their responsibilities and do not respect them, or give them the respect, dignity, and honor they deserve because of their aging related problems and behavioral issues; people don’t remember how their parents/ grandparents have raised them by doing hard work and fulfilling all their desires by avoiding their own interests. Aging gracefully and with dignity is a belief in the goodness that you are experiencing. It’s tender, gentle affirmations that honor your being, the amazing journey of your life thus far, the countless experiences, and the beautiful memories that are the essential fabric of your being.
There are major lessons from the survey for the rest of India. After all, the proportion of the segment aged 60 years and above is projected to grow by 360 per cent by 2050, compared with a mere 60 per cent rate of increase in the overall population — a product of the decline in fertility rates and the increase in longevity. A rapid rise in the numbers of the elderly would impose additional responsibilities on an ever-shrinking population in the working age and raise fresh social challenges in the context of the ongoing nuclearisation of India’s traditional joint family.
People really feel hectic taking care of the elders around them who really need their love and support. Yes, it’s so true that when people become old their health gets affected. They have a lot of physical and emotional problems but we should not forget how they have tried their best to fulfill our desires, how they managed all our tantrums, and
how unconditionally they adore us. They are a blessing! Don’t disgrace and dishonor elders around you! It is a fact that most of people take care of their elderly ones as they do not want to lose their loved ones. They don’t want to get apart from the love which is unconditional. What do elders want? Nothing much. They just ask for a loving conversation, your presence, and understanding. We learn a lot when we spend time with elders. We get to know how to live life happily and how to make everyone know their value and importance in our lives. Most importantly we get to inculcate qualities like patience, kindness, courtesy, principles, and values to face life. Don’t forget, No one is going to remain the same.
Time Changes! Dignity is a right of a person to be valued and respected for their own sake and to be treated ethnically. Taking care of the elderly gives us an insight into unconditional love and helps us love them in the same manner. As Kilroy J. Oldster says, “Growing old is humbling and it takes effort to accomplish this stage of life with dignity.”
The author can be mailed at afreenmanzoor34@gmail.com
Discussion about this post