THE TEN KEYS TO UNDERSTANDING AND COPING WITH THE ELDERLY

Prof. D. Jamuna and Prof. P.V. Ramamurti*

1. Our elderly belong to a past generation.  Their perceptions may be different from the present generation.  Understand and tolerate their views.
2. Because of their age, the elderly act slowly.  Don’t hurry them.
3. Frailty in old age may disable a person, making them feel frustrated and helpless.  Give them a helping hand.

Mr.Courtmatial during army days.
Sad, not even 'housemartial' now.

4. Like the young the old too have an ego, perhaps a bigger one.  Respect their ego and win their hearts.
5. Being used to power and status, the elderly expect compliance.  Say ‘Yes’ and get around.
6. New and unknown tasks kindle a fear of failure.  It makes the elderly take less risk and appear unenterprising.
7. As the elderly age, more and more of their peers pass away making the elderly feel lonely and apprehensive.  Give them the much needed emotional and social supports.
8. The long and eventful past of the elderly is more pleasant to think of than the uncertain, apprehensive future.  Nostalgia is a common characteristic of the elderly.
9. Sacrifice, love and affection go into the rearing of children.  Children could do a good turn by caring for their aged parents.
10. Ageing is inevitable for all.  Treat the elderly the way you like to be treated yourself.  Your children may model themselves after the way you treat your aged parents.

* Centre for Research on Ageing (CEFRA), Dept. of Psychology, S.V.University, TIRUPATI-2.