By Shajan C Kumar Sibling rivalry is a persistent challenge for many elderly parents, often stemming from mishandled situations in their children’s early lives. This phenomenon can continue into adulthood, affecting sibling relationships and causing distress for aging parents. The complexities of sibling dynamics are influenced by various factors, including parenting styles, expectations, and individual…
By Anitha Kumar In the tranquil landscapes of Kerala, a state known for its high literacy rate, the elderly find solace and joy in a simple yet profound daily ritual – reading newspapers. The printed paper is more than a source of news. For many, like the remarkable Ammini Amma from Thrissur district, it is…
By Abid Adil My mother had never liked hospitals, or doctors. In fact, she felt that they were there to simply scam the patients. She would avoid going to hospitals and even strongly discouraged us from a visit to the doctors. To most ailments, she would simply say that it would become alright over a…
By Adharv Chaitanya My mother died about five years back. It was quite sudden. She didn’t wake up from her sleep. Just like that she was gone. My father, now nearing 80, tried to cope with her demise. Things were more or less fine, till my father felt uneasy while having lunch one day. My…
By Sahana Dutt What are the common deathbed regrets that people have as they await their inevitable death? This is a question that often comes to my mind. What is it that I will regret most when I reach that stage? All of us live different lives; some feel fulfilled at a life well lived….
By Anna Rose “Please take her home,” said the attending doctor as he again read the latest medical reports of my mother who was suffering from a debilitating lung disease that made it difficult for her to breathe without oxygen support. The doctor was gentle. He explained that nothing much can be done for my…
By Bimala Gaurangi I have been a caregiver or a companion to the elderly for over a decade now. During this period, I have worked with almost a dozen ageing women in different homes, women with different social backgrounds, lifestyles, health and family problems. Each experience has been different. However, one thing is common. The…
By Viaan Shaurya My Dad was a very cheerful person as long as my Mom was alive. We had built a two-room independent set for them on the first floor while we lived on the ground floor. Things changed, when my Mom passed away. My Dad went into a state of denial. He refused to…
There can be no bigger boon for the elderly than the Digital Life Certificate (DLC) scheme introduced by the Indian government. The scheme, popularly known by its Hindi name, Jeevan Pramaan, is literally a life saver for Central Government or State Government pensioners and their spouses. Before its introduction, all pensioners had to provide life…