Furthermore, a multitude of family-related issues have been affecting the country on the grassroots level. One such problem is old-age. As per estimates, nearly 150 million people in India are above the age of 60 years. Most of these people are non-working. It is quite disheartening to see that children tend to abandon their parents during the autumn of their life.
” I rely on my son and daughter-in-law to provide meals and medicines. My daughter-in-law orders me to wash clothes and utensils. If I deny, she doesn’t give me food and medications. When they ( my son’s family) go out, they lock me inside the house all alone for long hours.” This is a statement given by Savitri Devi, a 77-year-old widow. There are so many widows like Savitri Devi who lead a life full of humiliation, helplessness, and agony.
A study conducted by Agewell Foundations throws light on numerous sad truths around the sorry plight of the aged. According to the report, more than 60% old people in India are poor with no source of income.
There’s an even bigger problem. Old people in our country aren’t aware of their rights. For instance, The Hindu Personal Law makes it mandatory for the son to take care of his old parents. Also, Article 41 of the Indian Constitution lays down a framework for the protection of the old in our country.
Parenting happens to be one of the toughest jobs in history. Parents leave no stone unturned in an attempt to make their kids feel special. Now, it is our turn to make them feel secure and loved.