Elderly people are victims of familial torture

ACCORDING to a survey conducted by the Population Science Department of Dhaka University, the number of elderly people (aged 60 years or above) is approximately around 10 million. About 54.5 per cent of them are subjected to both physical and mental torture by their own family members. While the average longevity of our people is increasing, by 2050 the number of 60-year old people will be around 40 million. In developed countries particularly the industrialised ones, 60 years is a working age and people of this age are found working in offices and factories. Apart from USA and UK, the majority of work force in Japan and South Korea comes from among the elderly people. These countries benefit from their hard work, intellect, experience and skills. But unfortunately, we find just the reverse in our country although it is a proven fact that these elderly people are also capable of doing a lot for the country. Their experience and intellect could be a valuable asset that can harness the process of prosperity for the country and its people. We expect that our government will take necessary initiatives in this regard and work out effective programmes to utilise the otherwise neglected elderly people of the country.

Dr. Md. Ruhul Amin

Senior Assistant Vice President

Islami Bank Bangladesh Ltd.

Beanibazar Branch, Sylhet.

[email protected]