Opinion - Letters to the Editor   

On senior citizens

The article “Senior citizens need care, not money” (Open Page, May 11) portrays what we see around us in our day-to-day life. As pointed out, the spurt in employment opportunities, particularly the IT sector, has had its impact on the value system. The case studies mentioned in the article are touching.

It is important to understand the needs and importance of senior citizens and fulfil them. All they need is some care and concern.

J. Nagasai,

Vijayawada

Thankfully, the trend of door delivery of provisions and medicines is gradually picking up, at least in big cities, thus providing the much-needed relief to senior citizens from the arduous task of shopping for essentials.

But they need enough money to afford such services. Thus senior citizens need money too, besides care.

Seshagiri Row Karry,

Hyderabad

As compared to government servants who retire at a given age, those employed in the private sector can work till their health permits them. There is no mandatory halt to their services. Even at 90, many senior citizens assist their wards in improving their businesses and professions. They render valuable counsel to tackle difficult situations.

In government employment, on the other hand, a man who is busy and able undergoes an abrupt halt to his activities, which is painful. True, retirement is part of life and it is important for seniors to make way for the young. But experience also has its value and should be properly utilised. During important occasions and functions in offices, the retired people should be invited to grace the occasion. At least once a year, a retired people’s meet should be organised in all government offices.

Another aspect that can make retirement life happy is the joint family system. Taking care of grandchildren can be a happy and cheerful experience

R. Ganesan,

Mayiladuthurai

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