Sir,
The elderly can be described as the guardians of the collective memory, conservers of intergenerational relationships and transmitters of authentic values that defined their existence. But these noble sentiments will remain empty words if we remember the elderly only when we need them. The fact that people now live longer requires a rethinking of the role the elderly in society and in the process of development.
In our society, caring for dependent and sick individuals is done by older people, particularly older women. In this context, it is important that the availability of and access to primary health care for older persons be integrated within a larger process of development, with a focus on their specific medical needs and adequate nutrition. These processes might include a safety net where pensions and other schemes are inadequate, for example the Jammu and Kashmir State. In this part of the country even genuine pension dues are denied to the elderly.
While it is true that the social protection of the elderly is a main responsibility of the Government and private institutions, I am of the opinion that the important role also of the family in their comprehensive security as well as in mental, physical and spiritual health.
Social support services are an extension of the common duty to provide for older family members who are neglected in order to reduce the impact of globalisation-driven migration and family fragmentation. In low-income countries where informal employment and poverty co-exist, the nutritional status of the elderly is at risk oftentimes because of poverty, responsibility for supporting grandchildren, living alone and a whole variety of age-related disabilities. A basic social pension and the protection of pension rights are important ways to reach and support the elderly.
Yours etc….
Predhuman K Joseph Dhar, Jammu.
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