Experts say if the old people spend time and get along with others and exercise every day, they will be healthier and happier. However, many elderly are suffering from loneliness and lack of fitness. Discuss the causes and solutions?
ESSAY #297 FROM OUR BOOK
It is indubitable that we are heading towards a greying society. The life spans have increased, but along with it the problems of elderly related to health and social isolation have also seen a surge. This essay intends to analyse the reasons of this phenomenon and also suggest ways to mitigate the problem.
The main reason of social isolation of the elderly is that they find it difficult to let go. The elderly often hold some traditional ideas on the correct way of life, thinking and behaviour, but their children and grandchildren do not want to be held back all the time because of their orthodox customs. So, this generation gap decreases the communication between the old members and young members in the same family, and as a result the old people feel isolated and lonely.
Secondly, the health of the aging population is a major concern. Human body is just a machine and like any machine needs lubrication from time to time to function well, the body machine also needs that oil in the form of exercise. The elderly who do not exercise daily, suffer from problems like hypertension and arthritis, which are further worsened because of the financial constraints of the elderly, who are no longer working and earning.
Simple steps can help to ameliorate the problem. One thing that that has to be accepted gracefully is that the problems of ageing cannot be avoided. However, these problems can be delayed, and the quality of life can be improved. The elderly and the youngsters both need to make certain compromises. They both need to try and find common interest with each other. In addition, the elderly need to add exercise to their daily routine. Government should also focus on geriatric care, and provide special gyms and trainers for the elderly.
To conclude, the elderly themselves can alleviate the problems of the elderly, such as loneliness and failing health, to a large extent, but the government can also take some steps.
