Over the last decade, global economic development has
contributed to the growth of the world's population. The older population
has also increased due to the development of health industries, which have
reduced mortality rates worldwide. The elderly, known as the golden
generation, are seen as a group that has contributed greatly to their
families, communities, and countries. They have been through various life
experiences to provide the best for their beloved families. Therefore, it is
important for our society, especially children, to respect the elderly not
only in our own families but also our neighbors and the community. The
question is, what are the ways to respect the elderly that can be practiced
by our society?
One main method that can be practiced by family members to respect the
elderly is to spend time with them. The elderly consists of mothers who give
birth to offspring and manage household affairs, and fathers who work hard
to support the family's livelihood. Their services and sacrifices should be
appreciated, and as good sons and daughters, we should take the time to
spend with them. In today's busy society, where chasing after worldly
affairs and careers, many do not return home or visit their parents in the
village. To avoid being forgetful of our responsibilities, each of us should
try to make time for the elderly as a sign of respect. With just a phone
call, whether it be audio or visual, we can communicate, share problems, and
hear stories from them. The presence of grandchildren visiting their
grandparents can also bring joy to them because of the cute and fun behavior
of the children. Ultimately, the elderly will feel appreciated and loved
when we spend time with them.
In line with the above method, the elderly should be respected by
prioritizing their welfare. It is well known that as one ages, the threat of
various diseases to one's health increases. By developing the country's
healthcare industry and introducing comprehensive health protection packages
like PeKa B40, extensive health protection can be obtained. The healthcare
costs that are beyond the reach of ordinary people can be funded by the
government by providing health incentives to the elderly. In addition, those
in charge of elderly care homes should be monitored and controlled by
government organizations. This is to establish certain standards and
regulations while ensuring strong financial resources in running elderly
care homes. If we look, efforts to help people in foreign countries are more
focused on than welfare in our own country, only because we are chasing
international recognition. Let us avoid being like a child on their mother's
lap, while nursing a monkey in the forest, where the welfare of foreigners
is prioritized while the welfare of the people who were born and contributed
to the country are being left behind.
Looking at it from a different perspective, individuals who are 50 years old
and above should have a strong and comprehensive retirement plan. Today's
economic uncertainty and rising cost of living have led people to realize
the importance of financial management. Most of the elderly today have
inadequate retirement funds because financial issues were not thought about
in the past. Therefore, the government should show concern by planning
policies that will help the elderly have sufficient savings throughout their
retirement. The Employee Provident Fund (EPF) should be strengthened and
become a more effective tool in providing a secure retirement fund.
In conclusion, respecting the elderly is essential in maintaining a
harmonious society. By spending time with them, prioritizing their welfare,
and providing financial security, we can show our appreciation and respect
for the golden generation. The elderly should be recognized for their
contributions to society and our country, and it is our responsibility to
give back to them. As the saying goes, "respect the elderly and love the
young." |