The Hindu : Opinion / Letters to the Editor : Caring for the aged

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Monday, Dec 17, 2007
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Opinion

Opinion - Letters to the Editor

Caring for the aged

The UPA government deserves praise for passing the Maintenance of the Welfare of Parents and other Senior Citizens Bill. But forcing the youngsters to look after their parents in their old age through legislation is like asking for the moon. Present-day youngsters are not like the youngsters of yesteryear.

Values of service and caring should be innate, not enforced. I shudder to think of the plight of the old-age parents thrust upon their children to be forcibly looked after. They will undergo mental, verbal, and, who knows, even physical torture every day.

M.E.G. Isaiah,

Chennai

* * *

The argument that parents should set aside a part of their earnings so that they do not have to depend on their children during their old age (Letters, Dec. 8) is unfortunate. It is only because of the commitment towards their children that most parents are unable to save for their future.

P. Paramasivam,

Tiruchi

* * *

I was surprised and shocked on reading the letter. Is it possible for middle-class parents, who are always thinking of their children’s welfare and spending on their education, marriage, etc., to set aside a part of their earnings for their old age?

Sita Subramanyam,

Chennai

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