R K Sharma
Life is a beautiful gift granted to every human being. It encompasses the time between birth and death, passing through various stages, with the final stage being old age. In India, only about 12% of people reach this stage, making those who do so fortunate, honored with the status of senior citizens. However, old age brings its own set of challenges that require care and attention.
People often enjoy life without much thought about the final stage until they cross the age of 50, when the signs of aging begin to manifest. It is at this point that individuals start to realize that the journey of life inevitably draws to a close.
Our bodies, like machines, start to show wear and tear with age. Unlike a machine, which can be replaced during a warranty period, our bodies come with no such guarantees. This makes it essential to care for our health as we age.
Just as machines need regular maintenance, our bodies require regular care. While machines come with a user manual, humans do not. However, scientists and medical researchers have provided extensive knowledge that can guide us in maintaining our health. Unfortunately, this information is often ignored.
Aging is an unavoidable reality for all, but the rate and onset of aging vary greatly among individuals. This depends largely on how well a person maintains their body, including food habits and lifestyle choices. While some may experience premature aging, others, remarkably, continue to compete with younger generations, breaking records in sports and other areas. These cases demonstrate that aging doesn’t have to limit one’s potential and achievements. They also show that maintaining good physical and mental health relies heavily on individual choices and awareness of a healthy lifestyle.
The aging process can be slowed through timely actions like regular health checkups, saving financially for old age, and maintaining social connections with friends and relatives. Avoiding unnecessary disputes with family members can contribute to a peaceful life. At this stage, one should stay busy with activities, hobbies, or recreation, rather than sitting idle. These activities should be chosen carefully to avoid unnecessary strain on the body, keeping one active without risking health.
In India, senior citizens are still respected within families and society, though this respect has seen some decline due to various factors. Nevertheless, the situation remains better than in many other parts of the world. Due to globalization, mass media, and the influence of multinational companies, Indian society is increasingly adopting Western cultural values, which often place less importance on the elderly. If left unchecked, this trend could harm the fabric of Indian society.
It is crucial that senior citizens are not only honored through titles or awards but are also treated with respect within their families and society. Meeting their physical, emotional, and mental needs is essential. Keeping the elderly comfortable, both mentally and physically, can significantly delay the aging process. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that they are cared for with dignity and respect, in line with the core values of Indian culture.
A positive mindset plays a key role in the aging process. Those blessed with life experiences and having faced various challenges should be mentally prepared for this natural journey. Rather than feeling sorrow at the culmination of life, one should focus on staying actively involved in daily activities, avoiding dependency on others, and doing whatever they can for themselves, their family, and society. As the saying goes, “The best helping hand is at the end of your sleeve.” With a positive attitude and an appreciation for the gift of life, one can live the later stages of life without regret, creating an environment where aging has little effect on them.
(The writer is Retd Tehsildar, Kalakote).
