Elderly people have many skills and much experience to offer us, if we choose to listen to what they have to say. In comparison with other cultures, we do not fully value our older people.

Some older people have lived through two world wars and have learnt to survive with very little. When whether you live or die hangs in the balance, as it did for people living in the war; you realise what is important in life. Whereas, today people live in a very materialistic society, the things many older people value cannot be brought. It begs the question, who is living in the real world.

Most people would agree, that materialism is transient and does not last. However, few people live their lives in this way. The acquisition of material goods is not bad but the importance we attach to them is not good or healthy. In China, the elderly are an active part of the family and often, the entire family live together. Our own culture has developed in such a way so this is no longer the norm but rather the exception.

Older people are able to offer us years of experience in all manner of subjects. We can in fact save ourselves a lot of time and wasted effort by listening to the advice they would give, if asked. Yes, society moves on and things change but some things are universal. One of these things are children, they will always want to be loved, as we all do. They will always learn by the example we set them. The elderly can support us in numerous ways with regard to child rearing.

Some people resent looking after their elderly relatives. True,it can be extremely difficult looking after someone who has Alzheimers. However, if your mother or father needs a little assistance with appointments, shopping, paying bills is that such a big sacrifice after all they have done for you. Don't we have a moral responsibility as well as an emotional one to the people who invested years into our care ?

Most older people ask for extremely little, from others. Are very grateful for any support they receive. They are honest upright citizens and exhibit extreme bravery. They often enter hospitals for major operations such as hip replacements etc. yet, unlike their younger counterparts rarely complain and take an active role in their recovery.

Elderly people are now more often able to work beyond retirement age. Advantages in medical science have meant we are all healthier for much longer. If our mature citizens wish to contribute to society why should society/government prevent them from doing so. Older people are quite often more reliable than their younger counterparts and take less sickness leave. They are also more likely to take the part-time jobs they we cannot afford to take, as we need to work full time.

In short, elderly people are able to support us in so many ways, if given the opportunity. If they are ill or struggling isn't it only right we should assist them wherever we can. If we as a society,treat them without discrimination, we will enable them to fulfill their potential. When we accept and value our older people, they will perhaps, demonstrate their value to us.

Learn more about this author, Athena Brady.
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