The Importance of Our Elderly
Elderly people are the backbone of our family and society. They have taught us how to be better people, and are a great source of inspiration for the present generation. They have given us so much - their insight, their patience, and their affection - and they deserve all the respect and love they can get.
- The Treasure of Wisdom: Over the years, our elderly people have learned a lot and have accumulated enormous knowledge. Their wisdom isn't found in books, it's in the stories they tell, the advice they give, and how they handle the curveballs life throws at them. Be it stories of Panchatantra, Mahabharata, or Ramayana, we see our epics, history, and mythology through their eyes.
- The Pillars of Our Families: Elders in India are like the thread that weaves our families together. They provide love, strength, and a sense of family. They make sure younger family members feel safe and like they belong. For example, grandparents have a special place in their grandkids' lives. They love unconditionally, they enjoy playing and telling stories to children, and they make sure their kids have a safe place to go when their parents aren't around.
- Moral Compass and Role Models: Our elders are more than just storytellers - they are examples of how to handle life's challenges with grace and courage. They have gone through tough times and come out the other end stronger. They are a great example for younger generations to learn about spirit, perseverance, and positivity. Their beliefs and values are the basis of an Indian family's moral compass.
- Nurturers of Culture and Tradition: Elderly people are the guardians of Indian culture and traditions. Through stories, songs, dances, and recipes, they make sure that the rich heritage of our ancestors is kept alive. In a world where traditions can quickly become forgotten, our elders play a big part in making sure that our cultural traditions stay alive. Be it weddings, funerals, or festivals, their advice helps us feel like we belong in our family and community.
- A Lifetime of Sacrifice: At the end of the day, our seniors have always put their families first. They have sacrificed so much, worked hard, and made choices with their loved ones' future in mind. It's a sign of how much they care. As they retire, they deserve our love and support. They have spent their whole lives looking after us, so it's our job to show them how much we care.
- Professional Success: We even owe our professional success to them. In today's world both the husband and wife go to work, it is only because of the support of grandparents that the child at home is safe and nourished. And the children also know, that their granny and grandpa are there at home to receive them with open arms when they return from school.
It is our duty as a society to honor, respect, and care for them, ensuring that their later years are marked by self-respect, security, and the same love they have generously given us throughout their lives.
The Unspoken Crisis: Elder Abuse in India
It is a painful reality that, in some families, elderly members are subject to neglect, abuse, and even abandonment. These stories of suffering often go untold, hidden behind closed doors, creating a crisis that demands immediate attention. Let us confront the harsh reality with some troubling statistics:
- According to a survey, more than 50% of the elderly people in India have reported abuse.
- More than 75% of elderly people have reported that their abusers lived with them.
- In India, Bihar is the state with the highest rate of elderly abuse - 12%, followed by Karnataka at 10% and West Bengal at 8% - says a report by LASI Wave- 1.
- According to a report by renowned NGO HelpAge India, only 16% of the elderly women in India actually reported abuse when surveyed.
- The survey also showed that disrespect was the biggest form of abuse that elderly people faced - nearly 60% of cases reported the same.
The Role of NGOs in Preventing Elder Abuse
The stats and facts mentioned above were certainly disheartening and alarming. It's up to us as a society to make sure our senior citizens are taken care of and valued. It's important to remember that our seniors have been a part of our lives through their love, wisdom, and sacrifice. Here's how NGOs can make a difference:
- Spreading Awareness: Raising people's minds about elder abuse and elder care is a great way to make a difference. NGOs do this by running educational programs, teaching workshops, and running campaigns to get the word out.
- As a helping hand: NGOs create an image that if an elderly person has been abused, they are there to help. Their helplines and offices provide a safe place to report abuse and get help. They offer counseling, legal help, and support to make sure the elderly are taken care of.
- Advocating for Policy Changes: NGOs collaborate with local authorities and if needed go on discussions with influential people of the society to advocate for policies that support the senior citizens.
- Empowering Elders: NGOs offer older people the tools and support they need to get back to being independent and confident. They make sure they can live without worry and with dignity and self-respect.
- Promoting Harmonious Relationships: NGOs organize many events and activities that bring elders and young people together, helping to bridge the gap between generations and instilling respect and empathy. This is also helpful in making the younger generation become more understanding and compassionate.
NGOs That are Working Towards Prevention of Elderly Abuse in India
It is the responsibility of every NGO, individual, and community to stand at the forefront of the fight against elder abuse. Here are some NGOs that have committed themselves to this purpose:
- HelpAge India: Established almost 45 years back in Delhi, HelpAge India is a non-profit organization that works to make life better for older people in India. Recently, they were honored with the UN's 'Population Award 2020', which recognized their work on aging, their relief efforts during the COVID-19 outbreak, and their efforts to make sure older people have rights in India.
- Dignity Foundation: The Dignity Foundation in Mumbai is on a mission to empower and uplift senior citizens through social, cultural, and educational activities. Through their different programs, the NGO aims to tackle issues like the lack of resources to look after older people, domestic abuse and neglect, and loneliness caused by nuclear families and young people who go abroad to find work.
- Anandam: Chennai-based Anandam is dedicated to spreading joy and happiness among the elderly. The purpose of this NGO is to help poor elderly people by providing them with financial and physical aid. What started in 2003 as a humble home for just 3 elderly people is now a full-fledged facility spread over 24 thousand square feet, conducting many activities for the senior citizens.
- Agewell Foundation: Agewell Foundation is dedicated to promoting the well-being and social inclusion of senior citizens. Agewell works for over 25,000 elderly people every day through a huge network of volunteers' network. Close to 15000 volunteers spread across 738 districts across India are working towards making the lives of the elderly better and more meaningful.
- Elder Care Trust: Based in Ahmedabad, Elder Care Trust is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for senior citizens. They offer residential care, healthcare services, and emotional support to ensure the elderly can age gracefully and comfortably. Their services mainly aim at providing holistic care for seniors who are dealing with dementia, Alzheimer's disease, cancer, or who are bedridden due to other conditions.
Senior citizens too need a life of dignity, respect, and purpose. And with a little love and care, we can provide them that. Now it's up to us to make sure that the causes of elderly abuse are eradicated, and that they have safe and secure golden years filled with security, respect, and love. Join us at Give Discover and let's empower our elderly with what they deserve and desire!
