Tuesday, 01 October 2024 | PNS | DEHRADUN
Continued migration of the younger generation is causing issues in families, leading to depression and other issues among the aged. Despite various measures purportedly executed and proposed by the State government in the interests of the aged, the senior citizens continue to face various problems. Experts said this while talking to The Pioneer the International Day of Older Persons yo be observed today.
Notably, the migration of the younger generation has become a prevalent issue for senior citizens in Uttarakhand, resulting in feelings of anxiety, stress and various other health ailments.
Considering this, the founder of the Time Bank, Rohit Mamgain, who works for senior citizens said that through their observations of the elderly population, particularly in Dehradun, they have noticed that many seniors harbour feelings of fear, loneliness, depression, anxiety and stress. This can be attributed to their sense of isolation, as the younger generation often chooses to relocate for career opportunities, neglecting the emotional support they should be providing to their aging parents.
Further, Mamgain noted a rise in feelings of insecurity, fear and loneliness among seniors residing in mountainous areas. Rather than offering emotional assistance, younger generation seems to prioritise financial success, which has a detrimental impact on the well-being of senior citizens. He emphasised the efforts of their time bank initiative in addressing and mitigating these issues faced by seniors. However, he emphasised that despite their efforts, it is crucial for younger individuals to prioritise making time for their elderly parents rather than solely focusing on monetary pursuits.
“I have encountered numerous senior citizens through my involvement in the time bank initiative, where I provide guidance and support. It has been noted that senior citizens often take a while to open up to us. It has become apparent that many elderly residents in Dehradun are dealing with feelings of isolation, lack of communication and a need for emotional support, resulting in feelings of depression,” said a volunteer with the time bank, Pradeep Kumar Tiwari.
He further highlighted that not only is the younger generation accountable for this issue, but senior citizens play a role in it as well.
Further, the State president of the Senior citizen welfare society LR Kothiyal expressed concern regarding the challenges faced by senior citizens as a result of migration. It is important for their children to address their loneliness and isolation by spending quality time with them, if necessary. Additionally, he highlighted that although the State government has made efforts to ensure the safety of senior citizens, these efforts have not always been effectively implemented on the ground. The incidence of crimes against senior citizens has also been on the rise. Therefore, the state administration and police officials should conduct regular inspections and provide support to senior citizens living alone throughout the state, he added.
