maintenance, protection and security of elders.
Communicating with the younger generation
Elders who communicate well with the younger generations may have been a rare breed in the past but that scenario has changed considerably. More and more elders recognize the need of the younger generations for independence and self-assertion. A society in which the young do not have the power of self-expression could be considered stifling and likewise a society in which elders are not respected would be a source for sleepless nights. Respect comes from being present to the needs of the young and from being a source of inspiration for the young. The right to self-expression is earned by the young person’s personal creativity and respect for the elder.
Social relevance of the elder
In ancient tribal societies elders were respected for their storehouse of knowledge and wisdom that made them socially relevant. It is said that when a native shaman dies, it is equivalent to the burning and destruction of an entire library. Native elders were consulted regularly and they presided over meetings regardless of their age. Today the retirement age in India ranges from 58 to 65 years and many people of this age group are far too young, capable and active to retire. Mechanisms are needed to bring retirees back into the work force if they so choose. While participation in the affairs of a Resident Welfare Association in an urban settlement may be one way to participate, such forums are seldom sufficiently orderly and meaningful.
Participation in family structure
The trend toward nuclear families is detrimental to the youngest as well as the oldest. On the other hand, many senior