Why does society marginalize the elderly? Some of the most valuable gifts (i.e., knowledge, experience, history, ancestry, heritage, traditions, genetic records, a window into our origin and a glimpse into our future selves) come from the elderly. Why don't people today cherish, protect and celebrate the elderly? In the past ten plus years I watched in astonishment and sadness as my parents aged and were exploited for financial gain by doctors, family members and other random people and entities. And I am using the word "family" very loosely. Unfortunately my beautiful father's life came to an untimely and suspicious end in 2015 as a consequence of this exploitation.
And as a result of this indescribable loss I now hover over my elderly mother like a guardian angel protecting her from every harm out there. I listen intently to every story she tells me about her childhood, my childhood, her struggles, her achievements and her love story with my dad.
Remember to be loving, caring, empathetic, respectful to and protective of the elderly.
Jacqueline Sebiane
