In many culture, serving the elderly is considered a virtuous act. It is believed that by doing this, a person gets blessings and there is happiness and peace in his life. In some cultures, older adults may be seen as a burden or less important, leading to neglect or inadequate care. This may result shifting them to old age home. Taking care of elders, is a way to show gratitude for their contributions and to ensure they experience dignity and respect in their later years. And by helping them in anyway is alwsys blessing that gives immense satisfaction. Considering the long term benefits that one can get by helping the old adults , Sanskrit has following to say ;
अभिवादनशीलस्य नित्यं वृद्धोपसेविनः |
चत्वारि तस्य वर्धन्ते आयुः प्रज्ञा यशो बलं ||
Abhivaadanasheelasya nityam vruddhopasevinah.
Chatvaari trasya vardhante aayuh pragyaa yasho balam.
Abhivaadansheelasya = a person who shows respect to their elders by saluting them.
Nityam = always, daily.
Vruddhaopisevinah = Vruddha + upasevinah.
Vruddha = aged persons.
Upasevinah = devoted to.
Chatvaari = four.
Tasya = his.
Vardhante = grow, increase.
Ayuh = life span.
Pragyaa = visdom.
Yasho = fame.
Balam = strength, power.
i.e. Those persons who give due respect to their elders by saluting them and always help and nurse the aged persons, their is growth in four aspects of their life namely life span, wisdom, fame and strength.
Elders have a wealth of experience and knowledge. Serving them not only makes their life easier but also gives the younger generation an opportunity to learn from them. Serving the elderly is a moral responsibility. They are our parents and family members, and it is our duty to take care of them.
Studies show that those who help others especially the needy and olders tend to be happier and more satisfied with their lives. “Serving the elders brings good rewards” is a universal truth which teaches us that we should respect and take care of our elders
