Old Age Homes

At present about 95 million people in India are above the age of 60 years. It is estimated that by the year 2025 nearly 80 million more will be added to this population bracket. Life expectancy in our country has improved and it is estimated that 8 million people are currently above the age of 80 years. After independence our country has made progress almost in every walk of life. The constitution of India provides right to life and living which is the fundamental need of every citizen. We believe that every person on this earth deserves to live with dignity till he breathes his last. Our cultural heritage reflects an image of goodwill, compassion and respect towards our aged parents who have sacrificed their lives, their comforts and earnings to rear their progeny in spite of their meagre resources. Service to parents and service to humanity has been the core value of our age old society. The degeneration of values and value system has posed a danger to the network of family care in our society. It is sad that aged parents often find themselves abandoned by their family. Old age homes have started functioning in a number of places in our country. What I personally feel that this concept has not so for been digested by the Indian society. We know it well that man does not live on bread alone. He needs care, affection and love at this age when he is too eged to be independent. Let dependence not become a curse for him. If we ponder over the problem, we may find the following main reasons for the neglect of aged parents : 1.Economic compulsions of the children. 2.Neglect and abuse has caused elders to fall through the net of family care. 3.Biased attitude of either member of the family. 4.Depression and lonliness. 5.Health problem. 6. Drug addicted care takers. Now, if at all aged parents have their shelter, it is the prime responsibility of society and the government to ensure that these homes are properly maintained and looked after. It is for the Govt. to see whether these homes have basic facilities or not. The residents there should have excellent health facilities. They should practise active aging techniques. They should be involved to participate in community meetings, celebrate festivals and also in recreational activities. Their valuable suggestions should be sought after. This should be made a home away from home.

T R Sharma
Chief Editor
Him Academy, Hamirpur ( H P )