Plight Of Old Age

People
-MY MOTHER AT SIXTY SIX-
Group members:
LUBNA
SANSKRUTI
ANWESHA
AARUSHI
RAKSHA
DEVIKA
SOBANA
 INDEX
SR NO CONTENT
1 About the Poetess - KAMALA DAS
2 Common Paradox of Human Relationships
3 Portrayal of Sensational Separation Between a
Mother and a Daughter
4 Plight of Old Age People : Ugly Truth About Old
Age
5 Reasons Behind the Need of Old Age Homes
6 Respect for Elderly Parents
7 Efforts for Stress-Free and Secured Life of Aged
People
8 Positive and negative opinions of aged people
living in old age homes
9 How to strike a balance between duties and
responsibilities of children and society
10 Data Regarding Miserable State of Old Age
About the Poetess
KAMALA DAS
 Kamala Das, also known as Kamala Surayya, was a
prominent Indian poet, writer, and literary figure
who wrote in both English and Malayalam. She was
born on March 31, 1934, in Punnayurkulam, Kerala,
and passed away on May 31, 2009.
 Awards: Kamala Das received numerous awards
for her contributions to literature, including the
Sahitya Akademi Award, the Asian Poetry Prize, and
the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award.
 Poetry Collections: "Summer in Calcutta" (1965),
"The Descendants" (1967), and "The Old Playhouse
and Other Poems" (1973).
 · Autobiography: Her autobiography, "My Story"
(1976), originally written in Malayalam as "Ente
Katha," is one of her most famous works. It provides
a candid and controversial account of her life.
Common Paradox of Human Relationships

 The common paradox of human relationships

often involves the tension between the desire
for connection and the need for individuality.
It's much like a kite that needs to fly and
explore the open air in the vast sky while also
needing the connection and control of the
attached twine. In the early years of our
studies, we are dependent on our parents for
many things. As we grow and enter adulthood,
we learn to be independent while remaining
connected to our family through open
communication and care.
 Portrayal of Sensational Separation Between a Mother and a Daughter

 The bond between a mother and daughter is often considered one

of the strongest and most enduring relationships in a person's life.
 The separation could be due to varied reasons. It could be due to
a conflict, a misunderstanding, diverging life paths, or external
pressures.
 This separation could lead to moments of longing and regret that
both mother and daughter may experience. This could be through
memories, dreams, or seeing reminders of each other in daily life.
 Connection with the poem:
 The theme of separation between a mother and daughter can
indeed be connected to Kamala Das's poignant poem "My Mother
at Sixty-six."
 Plight of Old Age People : Ugly Truth About Old Age

 Healthcare Inadequacies: Many elderly individuals struggle with access to

affordable and comprehensive healthcare.
 Social Isolation: Social isolation and loneliness are prevalent among the elderly,
especially those who live alone or have limited mobility.
 Elder Abuse: Unfortunately, elder abuse, whether physical, emotional, financial, or
neglectful, is a harsh reality for many older adults.
 Loss of Independence: As physical and cognitive abilities decline with age, many
older adults face the loss of independence they once enjoyed. This loss can be
emotionally distressing and require adjustments in daily living activities and
routines.
 Digital Divide: The rapid advancement of technology and digital communication
can create a divide between elderly individuals who may struggle to adapt to new
technologies and the digital world. This can further isolate them from social
connections and vital services.
 By shedding light on these issues, society can better understand and address the
complex challenges faced by elderly individuals, working towards ensuring their
dignity, well-being, and quality of life in their later years.
 Reasons Behind the Need of Old Age
Homes
 Urbanization and modernization : Today’s young generation do not
want to live in rural areas with their parents. And in order to achieve
their dreams they move to urban cities. And while chasing their dreams
they forgot about their old parents. And this creates a gap and they
detach themselves from their parents. So in such cases living alone with
no support is better than living in old age homes.
 Abandonment : It’s very unfortunate that children abandon their old
weak family members. Without even thinking about where they will go
at such an age. Hence it again gives a reason why we need old age
homes.
 Companionship : We cannot even imagine a day without talking to
anyone. In fact it makes life boring and colourless. Similarly the old
people also need someone with whom they can interact. And people at
this age of men love to share their life memories and stories with others.
And at an old-age home they get a good companionship and a must
needed social interaction
 Respect for Elderly Parents
 Spend some quality time: Loneliness and depression are two
very common problems among seniors. Spending quality time with
our Elders will show them how important they are to us.
 Never criticize their advice: We sometimes ignore the advice
given by our Elders; however, they are the ones with a lifetime of
experiences. This can be disrespectful. Try to value and appreciate
their advice given because they actually are full of wisdom.
 Always respect them: Our elders have grown up during a time
when manners and respect was a part of everyday living. Being
polite with them is the best way to show respect. This will help you
form a stronger bond with your elders.
 Plan to eat together: There are several studies that show eating
together is an important part of family time. By eating alongside
our elders, we can spend a quality time where we catch up and
have fun with one another.
 Efforts for Stress-Free and
Secured Life of Aged People
1. Address Underlying Conditions: Older adults should
address any underlying health conditions. Regular medical
check-ups and proper management of chronic illnesses can
significantly reduce stress.
2. Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients is
crucial. Nutrient-dense foods support physical and mental
health, helping seniors cope with stress.
3. Regular Exercise: Physical activity releases endorphins,
which improve mood and reduce stress. Encourage seniors to
engage in activities they enjoy, such as walking, swimming, or
gentle yoga.
4. Socialize: Loneliness and isolation can contribute to stress.
Encourage older adults to connect with family, friends, and
community events. Social interactions provide emotional
support and combat feelings of loneliness.
5. Mindfulness Practices: Techniques like meditation, deep
breathing exercises, and mindfulness can help manage stress.
These practices promote relaxation and emotional well-being.
 Positive and negative opinions of aged people
living in old age homes
 Old age homes play a vital role in providing residential care and
community support for elderly individuals who may require assistance with
daily activities or seek a supportive environment in their later years.
Residents often appreciate the safety and peace of mind these facilities
provide, knowing that assistance is readily available whenever needed.
Moreover, old age homes foster a sense of community and belonging
through group activities and shared experiences, which help reduce
feelings of loneliness and isolation.
 However, living in an old age home can present challenges that some
residents find difficult to overcome. Many elderly individuals may struggle
with the loss of independence and autonomy as their daily routines and
decisions are often regulated by institutional rules and schedules. Financial
concerns can also weigh heavily on residents and their families, as the
cost of living in these facilities can be significant. Despite communal living
arrangements, some residents may experience social isolation and
feelings of disconnection from their social circles outside the home.
 How to strike a balance between duties
and responsibilities of children and
society

 Balancing the duties and responsibilities of children

within society involves teaching them personal
accountability through household chores and
adherence to family rules. These tasks help children
understand the impact of their actions and the
importance of contributing to their family unit.
Simultaneously, exposing children to community
service activities and environmental awareness
initiatives nurtures empathy and a sense of
responsibility towards others and the environment.
 Data Regarding Miserable
State Of Old Age People
 Financial Insecurity
Poverty: Limited savings, inadequate pensions, and the high cost of healthcare
contribute to financial stress.
Employment Challenges: Older adults often face difficulties in finding employment
due to age discrimination and the physical demands of jobs.
 Solutions and Support
Improving Healthcare Access: Ensuring that elderly individuals have access to
affordable healthcare services.
Financial Assistance: Providing better financial support through pensions and
employment opportunities tailored to older people.
Legal Protection: Enforcing laws and regulations to protect elderly individuals from
abuse and neglect, and raising awareness about elder abuse.
 Data Regarding Miserable State of Old
Age People
 Health Issues
Chronic Diseases: Many elderly individuals suffer from chronic illnesses such
as heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, and dementia. These conditions often
require ongoing medical care and can significantly reduce the quality of life.
Physical Decline: Mobility issues, hearing loss, and vision impairment are
common, making daily activities more difficult.
Mental Health: Mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.
 Social Isolation
Loneliness: Many older adults experience loneliness due to the loss of loved
ones, reduced social interactions, and mobility issues
Living Arrangements: Some elderly individuals live alone or in long-term
care facilities, which can lead to feeling isolated.
 Inadequate Support Systems
Lack of Caregivers: There is often a shortage of professional caregivers
available to provide support for aged people.
Insufficient Services: Public services and programs for the elderly are often
underfunded and insufficient to meet the growing demand.
 Role of Youth to Improve the Plight of
Aged People
 Volunteering
Visiting Elderly Homes: Young people can spend time visiting nursing
homes, providing companionship and engaging in activities with the
residents
Community Service: Participating in community service such as home
repairs, gardening, or organizing social events.
 Advocacy and Awareness
Raising Awareness: Using social media and other platforms to raise
awareness about the challenges faced by the elderly.
Campaigning: Participating in or organizing campaigns to promote the
rights and well-being of older adults.
 Financial Support and Resource Sharing
Fundraising: Organizing fundraisers to support elderly care programs,
medical expenses, or home improvements for seniors in need.
Resource Sharing: Sharing resources such as books, games, or
technology with elderly individuals who may not have access to them.
THANK
YOU !!