A negative aspect of progress and modernization has been the ripples it has created in the traditional family structure and the worst sufferers have been the ageing parents. As youngsters move to fulfill their dreams and aspirations, the elderly as largely neglected and left to fend for themselves in their fading years.

Although we live in a society which is known for respecting its elders, data proves that elderly abuse most often at the hands of their children is growing. This is emerging as a concern which society must not ignore any longer. Even the courts have repeatedly acknowledged the right of senior citizens or parents to live peacefully and with dignity.
In this regard, the ruling by the Delhi High Court that children who abuse their parents while staying with them in their house can be evicted from the property is a landmark decision. This is a major improvisation in the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act 2007 that had left it to state governments to frame rules to protect the life and property of senior citizens.

Earlier, the Supreme Court maintained that a husband can now seek a divorce from his wife if she restricts him from fulfilling duties towards aged parents. The SC ruling in many a sense has huge significance especially given the present day status of family structure and equations.

While the SC definitely has no fool-proof solution to address the problem of elderly abuse, the laws to an extent will ensure their welfare.

 Recently, the Government of Arunachal Pradesh hinted to roll out its action plan for healthcare of elderly people besides information, education and communication programme to sensitise society about them. With the elderly population growing every year with increasing longevity, the suffering of the elderly are going from bad to worse and Arunachal must take timely steps in this regard.

The need of the hour is to sensitize the present generation to change their mindset about the elderly people, particularly their parents. Disrespect was shown as the most prevalent type of elder abuse in society followed by neglect and verbal abuse. 

With a life expectancy of only 50, Arunachal is yet to face the challenge of caring for its seniors. But with access to better healthcare facilities longevity will increase and society will have to find out a mechanism for their welfare.

 

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

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