Increasing Old Age Homes - A concern

Ill treatment of any elderly or for that matter any individual is not acceptable in any civilized society. I do agree with all your points expressed here. But I would like to mention one point which I think is valid for today's scenario.

We can not see old Age homes only as sign of rude and indecent children who refuse to take care of parents. The increase in number of such shelters even give a positive indication of society becoming more aware of the needs of these elderly people. If the elderly are forced to live in such homes, it is a grief. But it might be a situation that this works best for both the generation--Elders find their own engagement with their age group, more care without feeling to be a burden and the younger generation can aspire for their careers and other requirements. Some conditions in old age need constant supervision and for that specialized centers can be more beneficial.

It would be sad if they are abandoned by family in such homes. But if they are visited frequently by their kin, brought home regularly for holidays, festivals and every ocassion in the family, the plan might work out for both generations. 

I would not like to see many old age homes. But, it might be a place where old friends meet and celebrate life. So, it would be nice for it to be like a creche for adults.

I sometimes visit  an old age home called Ashraya situated on the outskirts of my city to see some relatives . This elderly couple decided to live in an old age home not because the children were ill treating them badly or they had no other option. It was mainly because their two daughters are married and  live in different cities but the couple prefer living in the city of their choice. After a certain stage in life, help is needed because of failing physical ability and strength, and when all your needs are taken care of under one roof why not make use of the opportunity? The place I visited is beautifully maintained, with a large expanse of garden around and individual cottages for the inmates, fruit trees etc and if course medical facilities and frequent travels organised by the home. Most importantly it provides companionship to people ..instead of criticising, I feel that we need to encourage it . There is no point in burdening your children simply in the name of duty when there are better alternatives. Children and parents can lead their individual life's independently which does not mean there is a breakdown in relationship.

 increasing number of Old age homes are not a matter of concern. growing old age homes need not indicate that the senior citizens are being neglected by their children. It is a fact that grows old, the thoughts and beliefs may not be compatible with the thoughts and beliefs of their children. For example during religious functions, old parents force some rituals like fasting on their children. In such cases a friction may take place in the family. In order to avoid such ugly situations, There is nothing wrong if the children themselves take their parents to old age Homes.another factor to be taken in to consideration is, Children of the old parents may be working elsewhere for their lively hood.

Old people may feel lonely that may lead to many ailments.

For such old age people old age Homes are ideal. because old age homes the parents can enjoy the company of other Old age people

 Hence I am of the opinion that Old age Homes are necessary.