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• 31 Mar 2026

Why our Elders deserve Care, Love, and a Place at the Heart of Society

A society that neglects its elderly risks losing its moral compass, while one that embraces them grows stronger in compassion and unity

ISHFAQ MANZOOR  In the fast-paced world we live in today, progress is often measured in terms of technology, infrastructure, and economic growth. Yet, there is a quieter, deeper measure of a society’s true strength in how it treats its elderly. As we move forward, embracing modern lifestyles and changing family structures, we must ask ourselves an important question: are we carrying our elders along with us, or are we leaving them behind? Old people are warm not just in the physical sense, but in the emotional richness they bring into our lives. Their presence carries a kind of comfort that cannot be replaced by anything else. It is the warmth of lived experiences, of unconditional love, and of silent sacrifices made over decades. However, in the rush of modern living, this warmth is often overlooked, taken for granted, or worse, ignored. There was a time when elders were the centre of the household. Their words carried weight, their stories shaped values, and their presence provided stability. Today, many of them find themselves on the margins, physically present but emotionally distant. The reasons may vary: busy schedules, migration, nuclear families, or the increasing influence of digital life. But the outcome is often the same: a growing sense of loneliness among the elderly. I am reminded, very personally, of what this warmth truly feels like. In my early school days, there was a small yet deeply meaningful ritual that shaped my understanding of love and care. As soon as I would return home from school, even before I could properly step inside, a familiar voice would reach my ears. While opening the door, I would hear her call out warmly, “Cxe awkha, beta!”—a voice filled with excitement, affection, and a sense of waiting that only love can create. At that moment, though simple, it carried immense warmth. It was as if my arrival completed something in her day. I would walk towards her, and as I came closer, her voice would soften. She would gently whisper, “Kath wanai , yi

rath , mai chu thumut Cxe ”—come here, I have something for you. There was a quiet joy in her tone, as if she was about to share a small but precious secret. When she opened her hands, there would be a small piece of meat, carefully wrapped in a polythene. It was not something grand or extraordinary. Sometimes it may have been just a small portion she had saved from her own meal. It did not matter how it looked or in what condition it was. What mattered was the intention behind it, the love with which it was kept aside, the thought that went into saving it just for me. As a child, I should have been the one smiling widely upon receiving it. But as I look back now, I realise something far deeper: it was she who smiled the most. There was a quiet glow on her face, a sense of fulfilment, as if giving that small piece to me filled her heart with happiness. She was happy. She was warm. And in that moment, she made the world feel kinder, safer, and full of love. Today, I still miss that smile. I miss that warmth. It was not just about the food she gave me, it was about the feeling of being awaited, of being cherished, of being loved without conditions. That is the essence of what our elders bring into our lives. Unfortunately, such moments are becoming rare. Many elderly people today spend their days in silence, with fewer conversations and diminishing engagement. They may not always express it, but the absence of connection is deeply felt. Being left behind is not always about physical abandonment; sometimes, it is about emotional distance, about not being heard, not being included, not being needed. Proper care for the elderly must go beyond necessities. Providing food, shelter, and medical care is essential, but it is only one part of the responsibility. Emotional care is equally important. They need time, attention, and inclusion. They need to

feel that their presence still matters, that their voices still carry value. Families play a crucial role in ensuring this. Involving elders in daily conversations, seeking their advice, and simply sitting with them for a few moments can make a significant difference. These acts may seem small, but they carry immense value. They restore dignity, build connection, and bring back a sense of belonging. At a broader level, society must also recognise the importance of supporting its elderly population. Efforts to improve healthcare access, social security, and community engagement are vital and must continue to strengthen. Creating spaces where older people can interact, share their experiences, and remain active contributors can greatly enhance their quality of life. It is also important to shift our mindset. Ageing should not be seen as a decline, but as a phase rich with experience and perspective. Our elders are not just recipients of care; they are sources of guidance, resilience, and cultural continuity. By valuing them, we enrich our own lives. We must also remember that the journey of ageing is universal. One day, each of us will stand where they stand today. The care, respect, and warmth we extend to them now will shape the kind of world we inherit in the future. A society that neglects its elderly risks losing its moral compass, while one that embraces them grows stronger in compassion and unity. Let us not lose the warmth that our elders bring into our lives. Let us not allow their voices to fade into silence or their presence to become invisible. Instead, let us ensure that they are cared for, respected, and included in every possible way. Because in the end, it is not just about giving back, it is about preserving the very essence of humanity. And sometimes, all it takes is a small, lovingly saved piece of food in gentle hands to remind us of the boundless love that our elders carry in their hearts. (The Author is a writer and a library futurist from Kulgam)