Should Old People Live In Old Age Homes?

It is becoming quite common for some children to put their loved elders in old age homes where they live the rest of their lives. Having looked at some of the old age homes and listened to the voices of some of the seniors there I thought it is best to discuss about it. Some points could be an eye opener.

Here are a few points worth discussing:

Senior citizens that do not have anyone or are unable to settle with their children can stay in these old age homes that provide them with medical facilities, well-balanced meals and health care. These homes are supposed to provide them with a healthy life, with the staff’s good behavior and services helping the elders feel good.

Looking at the other side of the coin, it is found that our loved elders that live in old age homes are very sad and lonely; it is quite natural as they leave their homes to come to stranger places that lack all memories. They tend to feel lonely as their families very rarely visit them and also for short duration only.

Some senior citizens tend to enjoy old age homes as they are taught yoga and are also given other facilities like telephone, library and other entertainment activities. Also they are able to pursue their hobbies, mix with others of their age group and also take part in religious and spiritual activities that is friendly for their age. They are able to do it all in a peaceful environment.

It is also significant to note that seniors may miss being with their family and spending time with their grandchildren; however it is significant to understand that they do not have to take up any responsibility that they must while staying with their family. The lack of imposition of duties and responsibilities are very amicable for elders in their old age. Also those who not have anyone receive the ambience of a complete family with a unique sense of friendship as well as security here. They are also able to share their joys and sorrows.

Freedom could be a missing element as far as some things are concerned. Elders do not have the freedom to eat meals of their choice everyday; they also lose on the freedom of cooking for family and friends and having their laundry done separately. The elders living here have to even get permission to watch TV.

A corollary to the previous discussion, elders in old age homes do not have independence; this could affect their morale and self-esteem greatly. Also they do not even have independence to go for worship at place of their option and have to worship in the place of worship within the old age home. They also do not have a freedom to choose a doctor and have to go to one in the old age home.

Last, but most important anger for putting them in the home could be directed at their children and the family is bound to receive heartaches. However staying or putting one’s parents in an old age home is more a question of one’s choice and priorities. 

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