The past two weeks have been a real struggle for my family. I have a beloved aunt and uncle that require more help now that they are 89 and 90 years old. In the last two weeks, they have been surrounded by love and support from my entire family. It has been beautiful and it makes me proud to sit on my family tree.
Caring for the elderly is very different around the world: In Asia, they are deeply respected and seen as sources of wisdom. In Europe there is great desire to create independence within the elderly community. In Africa and Latin America, tradition reigns supreme when it comes to taking care of the older generation. Sadly, but not surprisingly, North America has mixed support that can often allow the elderly to slip through cracks and feel neglected.
There is a cultural shift that is happening in the United States. The American Family is looking different. There is even a growing trend where kids are leaving their families; both physically and emotionally. Social media is encouraging them to disconnect with anyone that does not agree with them. Just think of what the family unit would look like if we all thought that way.
I see parents giving their kids more choices in their behavior. When I was growing up I was expected to address my elders as Mr. or Mrs. Bailey, instead of just Bryan and Lisa. I was taught that adults and kids are not on the same playing field. When we no longer look at our elders with respect and as set apart, we begin to treat them as if they’re in the way. By allowing the erosion of manners, discipline, and respect, this directly affects the aging.
This week, loving my aunt and uncle, I remember that the elderly teach us how to stay still and be patient, allows us to learn what aging may look like, how to serve selflessly, and most importantly, they remind us where we came from.