For decades, citizens dedicate their energy to building families, communities, and the nation. Yet, as they cross into their sixties, many find themselves sidelined, their worth measured not by past contributions but by present limitations. What should be the most dignified phase of life too often becomes one of neglect and invisibility.
Ageing in many societies is painted not as a celebration of wisdom but as a slow descent into irrelevance. Families, caught up in the pace of modern life, sometimes view the elderly as liabilities. The state, while vocal about welfare schemes, often leaves critical gaps in implementation. Between these two lapses, seniors are left to navigate a lonely existence.
Healthcare remains one of the most urgent concerns. Rising medical expenses, coupled with inadequate insurance coverage, make treatment inaccessible for many. Public hospitals are overburdened, while private facilities remain unaffordable. This neglect not only weakens bodies but also chips away at dignity and peace of mind.
Equally troubling is the emotional toll of isolation. With younger generations migrating to cities or abroad, older parents often live alone. The absence of companionship and meaningful engagement fosters depression and anxiety, which remain largely unaddressed. Loneliness, more than disease, is becoming the silent killer of our seniors.
But the picture need not be so grim. Societies that value their elders create spaces where they feel included—through community programs, social clubs, and intergenerational initiatives. Policy interventions such as pensions, affordable healthcare, and assisted living facilities can go a long way in restoring dignity.
It is time to recognize that our elders are not burdens but bearers of experience, resilience, and wisdom. The measure of a society’s progress lies not only in its economic growth but in how it treats its most vulnerable. To leave our ageing citizens in the shadows is not just neglect—it is a betrayal of their lifelong service.
From Builders to Burdens the Silent Crisis of Our Seniors
