Some believe that younger family members should be legally responsible for supporting older family members when they become physically, mentally and financially unable to look after themselves.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

REPORTED ON 26 JANUARY, 2022

It is suggested that legislations should be there to make sure that the aged are looked after by their younger members within the family. Although it is a good idea, in this current situation, it is not completely practical.

The primary reason why I hesitate to align with the suggestion wholeheartedly is because of the changing life-style of the people. In the past, people lived in joint families, and there were enough members at home to take care of both the children and the aged. However, most families are nuclear at present and the time spent by each member in the family is limited. In this situation, such a law would definitely taste bitter for them.

Another reason for my disapproval is because of the incapability of the younger family members to provide physical and mental support to their older family members. To be precise, many old age people might be suffering from serious physical ailments, which need constant professional medical attention. This cannot be provided directly by the family members, and therefore they have to be moved away to a professional set up. When this happens, naturally, there would be a lesser deliverance of mental support.

However, I strongly admit that it is the responsibility of each younger one in the family to provide financial assistance to their older family member when they are not productive. There would be limitations in the help they get from the state and other voluntary organisations. Therefore, I feel government should implement legislations in making sure this assistance is provided by their younger family members.

To conclude, it is clear that there are practical issues before younger family members to provide a wholesome care to their older ones, at times of difficulties. However, it is possible for them to give financial assistance, and this is their responsibility.