The elderly were once the sole breadwinners of their families in most cases. Nowadays, elderly individuals serve as guardians, providing us with security and fostering safe environments for us to grow up. However, the neglect of the elderly is increasing day by day.
Studies show that in our society, parents are often viewed as burdens in small families. The disintegration of joint families and the rise of single-family households are eroding the dignity and respect traditionally accorded to elderly family members. This trend should be halted.
The address of elderly parents should be either their own home or that of their children. Legislation must be enacted to ensure this, with provisions for punishing those who neglect the maintenance of their elderly parents. Additionally, government initiatives such as old age and widow's allowances, as well as lifetime pension schemes, have to be implemented holistically and fairly.
Today's children are receiving modern education, which is essential. However, socio-family values are often neglected in today's education system. Western societies have long abandoned traditional family values due to the influence of capitalism, and similar trends are emerging here. Education should not only prepare individuals for roles in the state and society but also instil compassion for others.
In our society, small families are becoming increasingly common, with both spouses often working outside the home. This is understandable given the financial challenges of relying on a single income and the desire for both partners to contribute to society. However, many struggle to accommodate elderly family members, which is unfortunate.
Furthermore, some parents may attempt to transfer their caregiving responsibilities to only one adult child, causing tensions within the family. These tensions often revolve around questions of who will care for the parents and where they will reside. As a result, some parents end up in nursing homes. As their incomes decline with age, many elderly parents find themselves less valued by their children, which is unacceptable.
Children must recognise their responsibility to show respect and love to their elderly parents. This duty should be fulfilled within the family unit. It is the right of parents to receive such care and consideration from their children.
Moumita Islam
A school teacher,
Bashabo, Dhaka