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How to Write a Hook: Powerful Openers for Your Essay

How to Write a Hook: Powerful Openers for Your Essay

Have you ever thought about how to grab your readers' attention right from the start of your essay? A good hook can really make a difference. It can pull your readers in and set the stage for an interesting piece of writing. This guide will help you understand what is a hook in an essay and give you ways to create strong openings that will keep your readers interested until the end.

What Is a Hook in an Essay?

A hook is the opening sentence or group of sentences that serves as an attention-grabbing introduction to your essay. Its primary purpose is to pique the reader's interest and create a specific tone for your writing. Good hooks are essential for academic papers, as they set the stage for your argument and encourage readers to continue exploring your ideas.

Some hook examples for essays are:

  • Anecdotes or personal stories
  • Thought-provoking questions
  • Surprising statistics or facts
  • Relevant quotations
  • Vivid descriptions or imagery
  • Bold statements or declarations

These hook examples can be tailored to suit various essay types and subjects, making them versatile tools for writers.

Placing Hooks in Your Essay Introductions and Conclusions

While hooks are typically associated with introductions, they can also be effectively used in conclusions to bring your essay full circle and leave a lasting impression on your readers.

Introduction Hooks

In the introduction, your hook should:

  • Grab attention immediately
  • Provide context for your topic
  • Lead smoothly into your thesis statement

Hook sentence examples for introductions:

"In the time it takes you to read this sentence, about 100 stars will have died in our universe."

"What if I told you that the most dangerous animal in the world isn't a shark, a lion, or even a human—but something so tiny, you can't even see it?"

Conclusion Hook

Hook ideas for conclusions:

  • Revisit the opening hook with new insight
  • Pose a challenge or call to action
  • End with a provocative question or statement

Hook sentence examples for conclusions:

"As we close this chapter on climate change, the question remains: will our grandchildren inherit a planet of possibilities or a world of what-ifs?"

"As we stand on the brink of AI-powered breakthroughs, one can't help but wonder: will machines dream of electric sheep, or will they dream of us?"

Loving these hooks? Aithor can write many more just like them for your next essay. 

Tips to Write Good Hooks for Essays

Writing good hooks for essays needs creativity and an understanding of who will read your work. Here are some tips to help you write strong openings:

  • Make your hook appeal to the specific people who will read your essay.
  • Make sure your hook fits with the overall feel of your essay, whether it's formal, funny, or serious.
  • A hook should be short and clear, usually no more than one or two sentences.
  • Using an active voice in your hook makes your writing more engaging and direct.
  • Stay away from common sayings or ideas that might bore your readers.
  • Your hook should connect directly to your essay's main topic or main idea.
  • Don't be afraid to rewrite your hook several times to make it better.

Remember, the goal is to create an opening that naturally leads into your essay's main content while piquing the reader's curiosity.

Step-by-Step Hook Creation Process

Follow these steps to come up with hook ideas that work:

  • Different kinds of essays (like argumentative, narrative, and descriptive) might benefit from different types of hooks.
  • Come up with several hook ideas based on your topic and essay type.
  • Definitions
  • Metaphors or similes
  • Write a few versions of your chosen hook type.
  • Look over your drafts, thinking about how well they fit with your essay's purpose and tone.
  • Share your hook with others to see how effective it is.
  • Make sure your hook flows naturally into the rest of your introduction.

Remember, the key to how to write a good hook is practice and improvement. Don't be afraid to change and make your hook better as you write your essay.

Types of Hooks

There are several types of hooks you can use to begin your essay. Here are some popular options:

Question Hook 

"Ever wondered why your dog tilts its head when you speak? The answer might surprise you – and reveal more about human-canine communication than you'd expect."

Anecdotal Hook 

"The first time I tasted durian, I thought I'd accidentally eaten something that had gone bad in the tropical heat. Little did I know, this pungent fruit would become my obsession and lead me on a culinary adventure across Southeast Asia."

Statistic Hook 

"In the time it takes you to read this sentence, over 700 hours of video will have been uploaded to YouTube. The digital content explosion is reshaping how we consume information, and it's happening faster than you might think."

Quotation Hook 

"'The cure for boredom is curiosity. There is no cure for curiosity.' Dorothy Parker's words ring truer than ever in our age of endless information — but is our curiosity leading us to knowledge, or just more distraction?"

Description Hook 

"The air shimmers like a mirage, heat radiating from the cracked earth. In the distance, a lone tree stands defiant against the barren landscape. This is the face of climate change — stark, unforgiving, and impossible to ignore."

Metaphor or Simile Hook 

"Learning a new language is like trying to navigate a foreign city without a map. At first, every street corner looks the same, every sign is indecipherable. But slowly, patterns emerge, landmarks become familiar, and suddenly you're no longer lost — you're on an adventure."

Each of these hook examples for essays can be effective when used appropriately. The key is to choose a hook that aligns with your essay's tone and purpose.

Wrapping Up: The Impact of a Strong Essay Hook

A well-written hook can make the difference between an essay that keeps readers interested and one that doesn't. By understanding what a hook in an essay is and how to create one effectively, you can improve your writing and leave a lasting impression on your readers.

Remember, the best hooks not only grab attention but also fit well with your essay's main ideas. They should give a taste of what's to come, encouraging readers to keep reading your work.

For those looking to further enhance their essay-writing skills, try writing tools like Aithor . Aithor can give extra insights and suggestions to help you write even more engaging hooks and essays. By combining your own creativity with advanced writing help, you can make your essays even better and really connect with your readers.

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A Thought Experiment to Help Recalibrate Our Beliefs about the Trinity

helping the elderly essay

The Way We Talk about God

Imagine that you’re trying to describe what God did on the cross. What do you say? Here’s how we’ve heard it described (including, at times, by ourselves!):

  • The Father poured out his wrath on the Son.
  • The Father turned his face away.
  • The Father abandoned his Son.
  • The Son felt the pangs of hell because he was separated from the Father on the cross.

Notice that in describing the cross this way, we are saying that there are two primary actors, two distinct individuals, the Father and the Son, the first two persons of the Godhead, and that each is doing something different at the crucifixion. For now, notice also that the third person of God, the Spirit, is never mentioned in these statements.

Let’s use a different example. You’re asked to describe God’s providence. What do you say? Here’s how we’ve heard it described (again, at times, by ourselves!):

  • The Father chose this path for me because he cares for me.
  • When we talk about election, we’re talking about the plan of God the Father.
  • We have a good Father who has planned all things to work together for our good.

Notice that in describing providence this way, we’re attributing God’s “plan” specifically to God the Father, and sometimes it sounds as if it’s only God the Father who plans out providence. One last example will suffice. Imagine that you’re told to describe how a Christian receives and uses spiritual gifts. What do you say?

  • The Spirit gave me the gift of [X, Y, or Z].
  • I can [use gift X, Y, or Z] because the Spirit empowers me.
  • I’m gifted at [X, Y, or Z] because the Spirit chose to make me that way.

Are the Father and the Son involved in the spiritual gifts? Or just the Spirit?

Beholding the Triune God

Beholding the Triune God

Matthew y. emerson , brandon d. smith.

This concise introduction to the doctrine of inseparable operations explores the unity of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in relation to salvation, revelation, communion, and more.   

In each of these examples, and even in the way we’ve asked the follow-up questions, what we’re trying to help you see is that we often think about God’s acts as divisible between the persons and distributed according to their roles . So in these scenarios, sometimes the actor is primarily the Father, as in the examples about providence; sometimes the actor is the Son, as in the examples about the crucifixion; and sometimes the actor is the Spirit, as in the examples about the spiritual gifts.

Let’s return to the examples related to the crucifixion. A question we often ask our students when talking about this subject, and after we’ve described the crucifixion in the ways we gave above, is, “What was the Spirit doing while the Father was forsaking the Son?” Was the Spirit just watching from the sidelines? Was he taking a break from his divine duties? Are the Son and the Spirit also wrathful toward sin? Returning next to providence, do the Son and the Spirit sit on the bench while the Father governs his creation? And with respect to the spiritual gifts, do the Father and the Son renounce their authority and hand it over to the Spirit to let him distribute gifts to whom he wills?

These questions, we hope, help us see that the way we talk about God’s acts often divides the persons of God in a way that is contrary to our confession that God is one God in three persons. If only one divine person, or in some cases two of the three, is acting on any given occasion, how is that consistent with the Christian confession of one God, or with its roots in Jewish monotheism? Aren’t there now three Gods, each of whom acts in different ways in different times? Or is there one God who is sometimes Father, sometimes Son, and sometimes Spirit? The former example is the heresy called “tritheism,” while the latter is called “modalism.” These are ancient false teachings that the church combatted through articulating what we know as the doctrine of the Trinity. And in order to combat them, we need to recover what the early church referred to as the doctrine of inseparable operations. 1

The triune God’s work in the world enables us to behold his power and goodness.

Beholding the Triune God through His Inseparable Operations

The triune God has graciously revealed himself to us. Historically and on biblical grounds, Christians have held two affirmations about who and what God is—God is one God, and he exists as three persons. This identification of God as triune stands at the heart of the Christian faith, along with the confession that the second person of the Trinity, the Son, took on a human nature without ceasing to be God. As fully human and fully God, Jesus Christ lived a perfectly righteous human life, died a penal, sacrificial, atoning death for sinners on the cross, proclaimed victory over death during his descent to the dead, and rose from the dead bodily on the third day. All of this was according to the Scriptures (1 Cor. 15:1–4) and in order to fulfill the promise that God made to Adam and Eve, that through the seed of woman he would crush the enemy’s head and thereby reconcile himself to his image bearers and restore creation (Gen. 3:15).

The triune God has graciously revealed himself to us.

But we would be mistaken if we took the Son’s incarnation and subsequent saving actions as evidence that only he is acting in the act of redemption. On the contrary, it is the one God —Father, Son, and Spirit—who acts in the whole history of salvation, including in the incarnation. Likewise, we should remember that it is this same one God —Father, Son, and Spirit—who “in the beginning created the heavens and the earth” (Gen. 1:1), who called Abram out of Ur of the Chaldeans, who spoke to Moses in the burning bush, who brought Israel out of Egypt, who revealed himself to Moses and gave the Torah on Mount Sinai, who led Israel through the wilderness, who scattered Israel’s enemies before her as she entered the promised land, who raised up judges and kings for Israel, who judged Israel and sent her into exile through the same nations that deserve and will receive his judgment, and who, to return to where we started, brought salvation to Israel and the nations in the person of the incarnate Son, Jesus Christ. It is this same one God —Father, Son, and Spirit—who calls his church together and feeds them with word and sacrament, who governs the world and brings rain on the just and the unjust, and who will, on the last day, remake what he has made and dwell with his people forever in the new heavens and new earth. In sum, the fundamental confession of God’s people—“Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one” (Deut. 6:4)— is still true even after the sending of the Son and the Spirit.

In articulating the acts of God this way, we are again emphasizing the unity of their action. We want to hammer this concept home at the beginning because it is one of the two major emphases of this book, and also because so much of our talk about God in contemporary evangelicalism actually cuts against God’s unity, especially as it pertains to what he does. Our songs and hymns and spiritual songs, our devotional readings, our prayers, and our sermons often isolate one of the persons of God from among the other two and speak of that one person as if he is the only one carrying out a particular act (or possessing a particular attribute). The problem with this approach, where God’s acts can be divvied up among the persons, is that it defies the logic of the Bible, Christian history, and systematic theology. The Bible speaks again and again of God acting. Systematic theology insists that for God to truly be one, his acts must be one, carried out by the one God who is Father, Son, and Spirit. And Christian history has taught throughout the last two millennia that the external works of God are indivisible.

Put simply: the doctrine of inseparable operations teaches that you cannot separate the acts of God between the persons of God. Every act of God is a singular act of Father, Son, and Spirit. So we can’t say that the Father alone creates or governs or pours out his sole wrath on Jesus at the cross. We can’t say that the Son alone saves us from our sins. We can’t say that the Spirit alone guides or comforts or gifts believers. Why? Because they are all acts of God. Thus, every act of God is the act of the one God—Father, Son, and Spirit, singular not only in purpose or agreement, but also in essence and every divine attribute. As Gregory of Nyssa explained:

Whatever your thought suggests to you as the Father’s mode of being . . . you will think also of the Son, and likewise of the Spirit. For the principle of the uncreated and of the incomprehensible is one and the same, whether in regard to the Father or the Son or the Spirit. For one is not more incomprehensible and uncreated and another less so. 2

Put simply, Father, Son, and Spirit are each God but are not each other. To speak of any person is to speak of God, and to speak of God is to speak of three persons.

  • Athanasius of Alexandria offers one of the earliest accounts of a full-blown doctrine of inseparable operations. See Epistles to Serapion 1.1.2–3 and Lewis Ayres’s discussion in Nicaea and Its Legacy: An Approach to Fourth-Century Trinitarian Theology (Oxford, UK: Oxford University Press, 2004), 214. In terms of modern works expounding a helpful biblical, theological, and historical doctrine of inseparable operations, nothing currently on offer compares to Adonis Vidu, The Same God Who Works All Things: Inseparable Operations in Trinitarian Theology (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 2021).
  • Letter 38 3e–3f. English translation from Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers , 2nd Series, vol. 8, ed. Philip Schaff and Henry Wace, trans. Blomfield Jackson (Buffalo, NY: Christian Literature, 1895).

Matthew Y. Emerson and Brandon D. Smith are the authors of Beholding the Triune God: The Inseparable Work of Father, Son, and Spirit .

Matthew Y. Emerson

Matthew Y. Emerson (PhD, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary) is coprovost and dean of theology, arts, and humanities at Oklahoma Baptist University. He is also a cofounder of the Center for Baptist Renewal and has authored several books, including The Story of Scripture: An Introduction to Biblical Theology and He Descended to the Dead: An Evangelical Theology of Holy Saturday .

Brandon D. Smith

Brandon D. Smith (PhD, Ridley College, Melbourne) is chair of the Hobbs School of Theology and Ministry and associate professor of theology & early Christianity at Oklahoma Baptist University. He is also a cofounder of the Center for Baptist Renewal and host of the Church Grammar podcast. He is the author of several books, including The Trinity in the Book of Revelation and The Biblical Trinity .

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helping the elderly essay

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Student Essay: Helping the Older Generation Embrace Technology

helping the elderly essay

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Jordan Mittler, a sophomore at The Ramaz Upper School in New York City and a participant in the Wharton Global Youth Summer Program, is the founder of Mittler Senior Technology, a company that helps senior citizens adapt to the world of technology. In this student essay, Jordan shares the story of how he started his business and why it has become so critical during this time of social isolation — especially in New York City, the epicenter of the coronavirus pandemic in the U.S.

In the next few months, Wharton Global Youth will be featuring a new essay every week, written by students around the world who are at home and eager to share their stories of entrepreneurship, leadership and experiences with business.

Five years ago, I gifted my grandparents, Janet and Mark Mittler, iPhones because it was painful for me to watch them still using flip phones! I have always been passionate about technology. I needed to get my grandparents, with whom I am very close, on board with the latest gadgets. It never even occurred to me that they would have no idea how to use an iPhone. They did not know how to perform many of the basic functions that come so easily to my generation, such as texting, Facetiming, photographing — and the list goes on.

And so, the idea for my business was born. I knew I needed to help this older generation, who missed the technology boom and was literally scared of trying to figure out our new connected world. As a result of this very real fear, they were often left alone and out of touch because they couldn’t communicate like everyone else.

Bonnie’s Got Mail

I decided to test my market concept at the local nursing home. I will never forget walking through those doors. I was only 11 at the time, and the director looked at me as if I had 10 heads. I went to the recreation floor and asked over a microphone: “Who would like free technology help?” I only had one taker. Her name was Bonnie Fisher, and I sat with her one-on-one for more than a year providing technology lessons. You should have seen Bonnie light up when she figured out how to connect with her sister and friends over email! I needed to figure out a way to reach a bigger audience.

I reached out to my synagogue, Congregation Kehilath Jeshrun, and asked if they would send a letter by mail promoting free technology help to all of their members over the age of 65. The synagogue was flooded with phone calls from interested seniors looking to enroll in tech class each Sunday. My temple, affiliated with my school, also let me use the school’s computer lab to hold my weekly classes. So many seniors showed interest that I had to maintain a waitlist. I got them into the classroom and taught them everything from texting to FaceTime and how to navigate the internet.

Fast forward to February 2020, and my classes were booming. I had even inspired some of my friends to join me in volunteering their time as teaching assistants. I had just added another class to fit in as many beginner and intermediate seniors as possible, and I felt like I was in a very good position to start scaling my business to reach even more learners.

We all know what happened next. Coronavirus swept through the world and our country, hitting the senior population the hardest and having a grim impact on New York City (reporting nearly 4,500 deaths through the beginning of April). During this time, I canceled my Sunday classes as my own schedule moved to at-home online learning.

I also realized, however, that senior citizens were suddenly even more cut off than ever. This new world of distancing was going to throw the older generation into more social isolation than they had ever experienced. One of my students, Roz Zuger, is 94 years old. I knew she would be disappointed without her weekly dose of tech class. So, I decided that I would attempt to continue my classes online via Zoom and walk all of my seniors through setting up the application and account. I started with Roz, spending endless phone calls with her to get her set up and comfortable with the online meeting platform. Roz had lots of trouble with the audio function on Zoom, and we slowly worked through this together.

After missing only one in-person class – and sending multiple texts and reminder calls — I had my whole class plus others online with me for our first virtual session. I updated my curriculum to be most helpful for seniors during this time when they were homebound and alone. For example, Rabbi Haskel Lookstein, the Rabbi Emeritus of my synagogue and Principal Emeritus of my school, needed help creating a group chat so he could communicate with all his children at one time. He was having particular trouble setting this up. I was able to show him virtually how to work through all the issues.

Facetiming and Ordering Groceries Online

The key to my teaching success with the older generation is showing, not just explaining. For seniors, talking in technology terms is less effective than presenting them with a visual of how to do something. They’re just not used to the language of technology. Roz, for example, was only able to launch Zoom after I Facetimed with her and sent her pictures via text of the next steps she needed to take. I helped Rabbi Lookstein by sharing visuals with him from my own computer screen.

In the past few weeks, we have been figuring this out as we go along – and it’s working. I started to record all of my Zoom sessions, so the seniors could replay any section of our class for review. After each online session, I send out a link to the recording, as well as a message with everything covered in class that day. My updated curriculum includes showing my students (which total some 80 seniors) how to order groceries online, how to order from Amazon, how to Facetime to stay connected, how to access online newspapers, and, of course, how to mute and unmute their Zoom audio.

It has been really rewarding for me to help so many people become tech-savvy during a time when technology has never been more fundamental to our daily lives. Social distancing has helped me bridge even further the gap between generations – and empower older people with the very valuable tool of connection.

Related Links

  • Teen Vogue: Teens Are Helping Seniors Stay Connected

Conversation Starters

How did Jordan Mittler think like an entrepreneur in a time of crisis? Need help? Check out this Wharton Global Youth article for guidance.

Initially, Jordan only had one customer. Why was Bonnie so important to the growth of his idea and his business?

Have you used innovation to respond to needs during the coronavirus pandemic? Share your story in the Comment section of this article.

35 comments on “ Student Essay: Helping the Older Generation Embrace Technology ”

Wow! It’s incredible how technology can connect everyone. Many people often say that technology drifts us apart, but I’d like to disagree. In the current age, technology lets people from all walks of life to seamlessly connect. From Jordan’s example of how he helped local senior citizens be accustom to technology, it indeed shows how something as small as a smartphone can bridge generational divides.

Moreover, I’d like to add that I’ve seen a similar experience with my grandparents. My grandparents currently reside in India while I live in the US. This poses a problem as we cannot communicate readily. However, I found a solution to that vexing issue last summer. My family and I decided it was time for a change in the technology my grandparents were using, so we bought them iPhones. I helped them understand the ins and outs of how to use the technology which they were not familiar with. Because of this, they often facetime us from India and have even become like teenagers, as now they are glued to their phones.

Hi Vishnu, I really enjoyed reading your anecdote about your grandparents in India. I could relate to this issue since my grandparents live in Maryland, while I reside in New Jersey. Pre-isolation, my extended family and I would visit them almost bimonthly. This was crucial to their well-being, as they live alone in a rural area. During the quarantine, I helped introduce them to Zoom, which has been a useful online tool. Now that they are capable of using it, our entire family has weekly digital chats. In relation to this article, our examples of giving help to our grandparents exemplify the responsibility of younger generations to take initiative with technology. Jordan allowing the Rabbi Emeritus of his synagogue to communicate with all his children at once is an important example of lending knowledge and skills to older generations to maximize efficiency and happiness during these times of uncertainty.

I understand that technology helps connect people, especially during this time of endless quarantines. It is beneficial that the older generation is taking an interest in technology, breaking the stereotype that the elderly reject new ideas. After all, technology was and is made to make humans’ lives easier. However, while reading both your comments, Vishnu and Charlie, along with the article, I see that in all the cases of older people using technology, it is because the elderly generation have no other ways to stay connected. Now, this sparked a curious thought inside me—the elderly are using tech because especially during this time period, they really need it to prevent themselves from becoming isolated. But when it comes to young people, we just use tech because we are so addicted to it. We reach for a phone because it’s just what teens do. We text, FaceTime, and play multiplayer games with each other simultaneously. For the elderly, the chance to be able to connect with their loved ones is a big highlight in their life. They have not experienced such ease and luxury for much of their lives.

In contrast, teens have grown up around technology. We should try to bring back a culture that is less focused on technology usage to grow up appreciating the time we use technology, especially to connect with others. The younger generation is so desensitized by constant interaction through texting and voice/video calls that we often fail to appreciate it. I was surprised by the enthusiasm of the elderly when Jordan offered classes, but now I realize that it’s because they have realized its value and are taking efforts to gain the most out of it. For me, it took spending some time in quarantine to realize this. My friends and I are always complaining how we are so lonely, when we have actually been texting and calling daily before the COVID-19 outbreak. Teens need to shift a little bit away from the constant technology usage and take time to do other things that do not require technology—perhaps even teaching their elderly relatives about technology, as Jordan did.

I also have another major concern: older people are already at huge risk to scams and privacy issues, and presenting them with increased technology would give others more opportunities to take advantage of the elderly. I already admire Jordan very much for being able to accomplish the feat of teaching the elderly about technology, and I am also very impressed at how he runs his program so professionally and in such an organized way. But I also hope that Jordan, along with you, Vishnu and Charlie, for your grandparents, have presented the gift of technology as well as explained the dangers that come with technology. There are many scammers and hackers that target the elderly, as they are known to take weaker security measures without knowing the consequences. They are more susceptible to common false alerts on the internet and on phone calls. When we think of introducing technology to the elderly, thinking about their tech security and scam-awareness are not the first things that come to mind, so I think there should be further steps taken to make that a priority. Still, I understand that connecting with loved ones is a priority in this case, as it is a good thing that your grandparents have been able to establish a system of communication to maximize the time you all share. I hope there will be more cases similar to that of yours and Jordan’s students. That way, the world can truly be connected and everyone will FEEL connected!

Daniel It is interesting that you note that students now are doing school from home and despite being tech savvy, they miss the socialization of school and may have to find other ways of relating to their friends or spending their time. They can stimulate their minds thinking about how they can contribute to society, or better their reading and writing skills.

Charlie It is important for children and grandchildren to recognize that their senior relatives can benefit from learning technology, and a little patience in instructing them will make them so happy. On a personal note, my Rabbi has done so much for my family and has been there for all of our family’s life events, so it gave me personal pleasure to help teach him how to connect with his family in new ways during these challenging times.

I love your personal experience with your grandparents. Your thoughts remind me that helping the older generation learn the use of technology also help us connects our lives with theirs.

Vishnu This is wonderful to hear that you got your grandparents iPhones and they are now using FaceTime. It is interesting that you point out that technology sometimes causes people to drift apart, maybe because it is often something people do alone without communicating with others. There are so many elements of technology like face time or zoom that allow people to connect virtually.

Hey Vishnu,

It sounds like we both share Jordan’s experience with the elderly population. I definitely agree that technology has connected us all and bridged generations. While your grandparents are in India, mine are in Florida. I know it’s not quite as far away, but for them, it’s far enough. Similar to how you guys had to cater your lessons to what their generation was used to, I have had my share of challenging but also rewarding experiences. For Jordan, it was FaceTime and Zoom; for me, it was Gmail.

My grandpa called me one day because his friend had sent out a party invite as a list. Grandpa spent about forty minutes trying to find it. I told him to look carefully and like Santa, check his list twice. He didn’t think that was funny. I realized that his friend’s email probably went to his Spambox. I told him to look to the left to find Spambox and click on it. He replied “My Gmail must be different from yours; I don’t have a Spambox folder.” After a few minutes of trying to describe it to him, I FaceTimed him. I looked on his screen and realized that he needed to scroll down in order to find Spambox.

For me, I had always automatically scrolled down to find it without even realizing that I did this. To me, every action or click is like a knee-jerk reflex, but I realized that for grandpa, his reflexes needed a bit more time to kick in. Jordan is absolutely right in that the elderly need more hands-on and visual support. Remember, they grew up with things that required more physical interaction like holding a thick hardcovered book or applying their index finger on a rotary phone. Even my mom tells me she used to love watching each digit of the rotary phone make its way back!

Anyways, thank goodness for FaceTime. I showed grandpa how to scroll down to find his Spambox. And sure enough, the mysterious party invite miraculously appeared. I thought about teaching Grandpa how to move that conversation to his Inbox, but he was so elated that I decided to save this lesson for another day.

I found this article very relatable as I have as well tried to teach my grandparents how to use a mobile phone. At the end I was only able to teach my grandmother how to play candy crush and how to select who she wanted to call without needing to type the number every time. But nothing more. She kept refusing to learn the “new and unnecessary technologies”.

What he is doing very important, specially during the coronavirus epidemic. I have found the elderly are the ones who suffer the most isolation, as they are the ones that are less connected. It reminds me of a video what was viral in social media about a grandmother who sang happy birthday to herself, alone, in her house. It broke my heart. This is why seemingly-small ideas like these can really make an impact and change people’s lives for the better.

Hi Alejandra! I can totally relate to your experience. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I have been sympathizing for the elderly in nursing homes, who are not able to interact with families. Therefore, I started Facetime sessions with the elderly, either playing piano for them or chatting with them to help time pass by for them. However, I came across some obstacles, such as having difficulties getting on the video chat. She told me that although she enjoys having a companion to talk to, it is really hard for her to work with the technology, such as logging onto the computer. I was dejected for not being able to teach her about technology usage due to the quarantine lockdown.

Furthermore, I live on the opposite side of the globe from my grandmother. The only form of communicating and interacting is through technology. However, she also has hard time using it as well, and it really is painful to think that I am not able to spend most of the time actually talking rather than being lost on using the technology to communicate, especially when I want to spend as much time with her.

As of in the near future, I would like to create a nonprofit business, putting an emphasis on sharing our knowledge of technology to those who are not efficient with it.

Alejandra Seniors are often fixed in their ways and unwilling to change. They like what has been working for so many years. They have to be told that is ok to try things with their phone and not to be afraid to make a mistake. Your grandmother liked to make calls but she may like to learn how to text if she is encouraged to do so, and understand this is a popular way to communicating these days. If she tries it maybe she will like it. She may appreciate someone texting her an image or picture, something you can’t do over the phone.

This article really reflects the present situation of contemporary society.In just 20 years, from cover phones to smartphones, from 2G to 5G, from 8GB to 512GB, the change is so fast and dramatic that the elderly feel disjointed by the society. Take my family for instance. In the 5 years ago, my grandparents don’t know how to use the smartphones. But now, they can use the app like Wechat to communicate with others. When they go out and buy stuffs, they use the apple pay instead of paying the cash. This paves the convenient for them because the elderly will be easy to lost cash or coins on the way home. You know that they will be disappointed and complaint when they know they just lost several dollars. This problem can be solved now. The another advantage that I discovered is that seeing the doctor online. In the past, my grandfather had to get up early around 5.am and go to the hospital to make an appointment. In the morning, the temperature is very low and it is so tired for him to register. But now, they can make the appointment online through the app. This can largely save the time on the way to the hospital and queuing outside the gate. After finishing the doctor, The medicine will be mailed to the home, so that grandpa would not have to go to the hospital to get it again and again. This class sounds great since it helped a lot of “students” to learn the advanced technology. Nowadays, many young people are busy with their work and don’ have enough time to teach their parents to use the phones. This class just solves this embarrassment. Recently, my grandparents know a lot of knowledge about the prevention of COVID-19 and buying the food online without going to the market to reduce the risk of infection. The phones really make the life more convenient and these classes should be encouraged by the public. We should try our best to make the contribution to the society.

I agree with you, YuTao. The article really emphasizes the change that technology has brought onto the modern world and the transformational effect it can have on someone’s life. As technology evolves every day, so does mankind. And in this time and day, it’s up to the newer generation to educate the older generations about this change. Being part of the new generation myself, I’ve had to teach many family members about technology as well, such as setting up an app, purchasing something, or helping them understand how to communicate with their friends through the use of WeChat and similar apps. A couple of years ago, we went back to China to visit our family, and at the end of the trip, because the thought of saying goodbye and not speaking to them for a long time was so painful, we decided to get them new phones and teach them how to use them so we could communicate with the touch of a button whenever we missed each other. My cousin and I had to teach our uncles, aunts, and grandparents how to set up their new phones and WeChat because technology was still foreign to them at the time. And now, they use their phones just like anyone would in this day and time, despite the large age gap between us. At home, my mom constantly asks me questions about technology because she isn’t very technologically advanced, due to the fact that she immigrated here from China back when there was little technology available. However, now that she has one, she constantly asks me how to set things up, how to search things up, or how to manage her WeChat when she wants to call or FaceTime some of her friends. She’s also learned to use her phone to go places by using Google Maps. Using handheld maps and knowing the routes by heart is no longer needed with the advancement of technology. Because of the elderly’s age, getting places and doing things by themselves is not as easy as it was when they were younger. They aren’t able to support themselves, and their kids may be too busy with work and their own lives to be around them every hour of the day. With their newfound technology, they can call for assistance by simply pressing a button that will notify help, or call someone in case of an emergency. Technology could very well save someone’s life. Moreover, I feel like the class that Jordan has decided to teach could end up helping everyone, not just his students. His teaching the classes means that the elderly’s kids don’t need to teach them themselves, and instead can focus on working and supporting their family as a whole. They can rest assured knowing that their parents are safe and that they know what to do in case of an emergency. In addition, they could also learn to download some games for their own entertainment. It’s important to acknowledge Jordan for everything he’s done and to appreciate him for giving us this opportunity to experience something new that can help many. This example shows just how much technology has evolved over these years.

YuTao Thank you for your kind words. More people are no longer using money, so it would be helpful for seniors to use their phone to pay for things, maybe with credit card or Apple Pay. It is very helpful for seniors to be able to use electronics for medical purposes, like emailing with a doctor. I also teach in my class about a healthcare app where seniors can keep all of their medical information.

Experience is key in entrepreneurship. One of the few ways we have to better ourselves as entrepreneurs, and our businesses as life experiences, is going through an initial process of practice and learning, often a synonym for failure. Bonnie’s role in the case of this fantastic entrepreneurial story is exactly this one: giving Jordan a starting point, from which acknowledging the actions necessary to improve the quality of the business. As often stated throughout the article, connecting people has never had such an importance in the terrible crisis we are facing due to the Coronavirus outbreak. Older people are being left behind, not only technologically, but unfortunately socially too: missing tools, such as the previously discussed iPhones and laptops, and absent experience, make it much more difficult for grandmas and grandpas to go beyond the standard, old-fashioned phone call, in a world, in a time, where the closer we can get to having real-life meeting with our loved ones is joining a Zoom call. I personally find this a wonderful example of how we, as youngsters, can personally engage in making these terrible times lighter and less burdensome: each small action can make a difference, regardless of the size of our targeted audience, and our duty as world-citizen, I think, has never had such an important role in our everyday life.

Jacopo I’ve been very fortunate to have this entrepreneurial experience at this early age, and I hope to continue through my high school years so that I will be able to expand this program and scale it so it helps so many more people.

Similar to your experiences, I am also a sophomore and also volunteer to aid senior individuals in adapting to new technology! As a branch director in an organization called Teach Seniors Technology, I could not relate more on the initial difficulties in gaining customers. A few years ago, when I walked into my local community center to give my first lesson, there were only one or two students. In fact, there were many times during my first couple of months volunteering where no students had signed up for my weekly lessons! Though I wasn’t necessarily successful at first, I was also forced to adapt for these reasons. After reaching out to the community center staff, I was able to secure a classroom and promotion materials for my service which now serves several seniors each week.

Yet, I believe the “success” of my organization is determined by much more than the number of seniors who I teach. I often serve seniors from China, who have to bridge both the language barrier and the technological gap here in the United States. One of the ladies at my branch literally burst into joy when I taught her how to use Google Translate! In a world which is becoming increasingly interconnected and reliant on technology, I find that “success” of my volunteering branch rests on reintegrating these seniors into the technological area of society. I am overjoyed by the fact that there are other who share so much similarity with me. As more and more technological advancements are made, we must learn to bridge generational gaps so that our society as a whole can progress together with the technology that is being invented.

Jason It is wonderful to hear of another sophomore participating in a similar type of program.

Just like you, I help senior citizens but also adults from Central and South America with the technology and language barrier that thousands of people face in the United States. Technology is not common for lower classes in third world countries which makes it difficult for these adults and senior citizens to understand what seems like the basics of a smartphone for the majority of people in the US. It is such a joy when I see those which I help finally being able to communicate through Google Translate (An incredible tool I must say) and doing tasks like buying on Amazon, Instacart, or any online store. Observing this has made me come to the conclusion that we must come together as the new technology generation and help all of those individuals who have not gotten the opportunity to learn the incredible benefits the tech world brings; together we can close the digital divide across all ages, races, and socioeconomic statuses. We are the future and have yet to see great things created through technology.

Great response, Rossana! Do I see a team of digital-divide change makers forming here?

Technology helps join people, specially for the duration of this time of infinite quarantines. It is recommended that the older era is taking an hobby in technology, breaking the stereotype that the elderly reject new ideas. After all, technological know-how was once and is made to make humans’ lives easier. However, whilst analyzing each your comments, Vishnu and Charlie, alongside with the article, I see that in all the instances of older humans the use of technology, it is due to the fact the aged era have no different approaches to remain connected. Now, this sparked a curious thinking internal me—the aged are the use of tech due to the fact particularly at some stage in this time period, they genuinely want it to forestall themselves from turning into isolated. But when it comes to younger people, we simply use tech due to the fact we are so addicted to it. We attain for a smartphone due to the fact it’s simply what teenagers do. We text, FaceTime, and play multiplayer video games with every different simultaneously. For the elderly, the hazard to be in a position to join with their cherished ones is a massive spotlight in their life. They have no longer skilled such ease and luxurious for a great deal of their lives.

Despite efforts to teach the older generation about the newest developments in technology, it is saddening how much of the older generation is still very ignorant about it, especially since it is an era of technology.

One summer, I went to China to see my relatives, especially my grandmother. My grandmother lived in more rural parts of Sichuan, in Dazu. She didn’t need to use any technology; as long as she knew how to open the television and call using her corded home telephone, she could live happily growing plants in the back yard and raising chickens. She rarely went into the city to where my other relatives lived, they always visited her instead. However, to my delightful surprise, she proactively volunteered to wait for my arrival in Chongqing, one of the busiest cities in Sichuan.

When I arrived at my aunt’s apartment, where my grandma stayed, I asked jokingly why she decided to finally come to the city, she replied that it was because she hadn’t been here for so long. It was boring back home, and my grandma wanted to experience what life is like in the city for a while. She said that she would stay in the city until I left for America in a few weeks.

I was delighted and planned to take her to all sorts of fun places with great food that I had remembered from my last visit here. In Dazu, you could hardly find such boisterousness due to the lack of crowds. I was sure that she would enjoy it.

One morning, after I had officially settled in at my aunt’s house, my aunt and her husband told me that they were going to go somewhere for the rest of the day and needed me to take care of my grandmother. They said I could take my grandmother out to walk or do some other activities, but to be careful. I agreed with a smile.

My grandma was very happy this particular morning as well. She told me that she wanted to try exercising in the nearby park with some other old people; she wanted to make some friends here. I happily agreed. I walked her to the park and watched her dance and make merry with the folks there. After a few minutes, she could tell that I was a little restless and told me to play on my own and insisted that she could manage herself well. She said that she would go home when she wanted to and told me not to worry. I reluctantly agreed, told her the directions to the apartment building, and gave her the corresponding card. The apartment wasn’t that far, only one block away from the park. Then, I went off to a nearby stationary store to buy some souvenirs for my friends in America.

After some time, I picked the gifts that caught my fancy and went on the line to pay. The store was very popular and so the line was very long as well. After waiting for a quarter of an hour, I finally got out of the line and started my way home. In the distance, I saw a familiar figure. I panicked and hurriedly ran to the entrance of the apartment.

My grandma stood in the burning sun, her arms hung down at her sides, watching the pedestrians. Apparently, she had a squabble with the people from the park almost immediately after I left. She wasn’t in the mood to dance anymore, so she went home. However, the problem is that she didn’t know how to open the more technologically advanced apartment door. To me, the door system was very simple, you just had to swipe a card, but my grandmother never had to use this sort of system, she only ever needed a key. My grandma thought that you just had to press the card against the door or something. She also forgot how to call using the smartphone that was given to her. I also didn’t think it was necessary enough to teach my grandmother how to open the door since it seemed natural to me.

This story truly shows the importance of communication and the need to help the older generation with technology.

“When are you coming back?” These words were music to my 15-year-old ears. I had just helped fix the internet connectivity issue for Ms. Jacobson, one of the residents at Sequoias’, a senior residential facility, where I was volunteering to help seniors with their tech issues in the summer after my freshman year. Ms. Jacobson sent a very nice thank you note about the help she received from me to the Services Director at Sequoias who passed it on to me. The note, painstakingly written in spidery cursive must have taken Ms. Jacobson some time to write and is still cherished by me. The experience with helping seniors with their tech issues and entertaining them with piano recitals helped me get more attuned to the needs of my own grandparents. My two sets of grandparents are separated by a decade and come from similar backgrounds but have very different life experiences. One set of grandparents who live with us are older, technologically challenged, and can call on us anytime to help them operate the phone, the TV and other gadgets. They prefer to read the actual newspaper despite efforts to get them to read news online, and prefer talking on the phone instead of using Facetime. The younger set of grandparents who live in India have a large social circle, live on their own, and while still technologically challenged, have learned the basics of how to use a smartphone, browse the internet, and order online. Jordan’s article made me reflect on my experience working with seniors, both in my own family and outside and I realized that seniors face the same challenges that students of all ages face. First of all, every student learns in their own unique way, much like some of Jordan’s students – Roz and Rabbi Haskel. Some are visual learners, some need more time to read and absorb information on their own, etc. Secondly, each student has different capabilities and interests. Some like one set of my grandparents did not have much interest in learning how to use technology as they were happy with the old ways and could always ask us for help if they needed it. The other set of grandparents found ways to learn the basics that they needed to fulfill their needs as they were living on their own. There is also a social and cultural context to this. More and more seniors are now forced to live on their own, either in their homes or in senior facilities. Those that do not live with family face loneliness among other issues, and do need to know some basics such as texting, online searching and ordering, connecting with their medical provider online, etc. to stay safe, independent, and connected. The need to stay connected has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the issue with being connected is that not only are seniors more vulnerable to scams, they are also very gullible when it comes to fake news. I have had to constantly remind my grandparents who treat WhatsApp and Facebook as reliable news sources that everything they read there is not always true. The other issue is the plethora of apps, tools, and websites that can be overwhelming for seniors. I noticed this issue after working with a couple of seniors at Sequoias and created a home page for every senior I worked with, that contained shortcuts/icons for their most frequently used apps and websites for easy access. Perhaps in all of this, there is an opportunity to create senior-friendly apps and devices, but unfortunately, this is not a coveted demographic for tech companies and marketers. There is certainly a need to help seniors learn tech basics which can enrich and simplify their life. I applaud Jordan’s efforts to provide this valuable service to seniors in his community. However, the bigger question I ponder is that why are seniors put into this position in the first place where instead of enjoying time with their families, they are forced to learn new skills, especially when many have impacted cognitive skills which makes learning new things harder. Additionally, we are only talking about a subset of the senior population. There is a big population of seniors living in poverty who have more pressing issues such as survival to deal with. My own experience with my grandparents and with seniors I worked with is that every single one of them would have preferred to live with their families, surrounded by their children and grandchildren instead of connecting with them over facetime and group chats. In fact, the percentage of multigenerational families in the United States has continued to rise, primarily due to financial necessity. While one size does not fit all and every family has their own unique challenges, perhaps it’s time for us as a society to take a closer look at how best to support the needs of our senior population, given the increased life expectancy in the United States.

Hey, Jatin. I really enjoyed reading your thoughtful post and response. What I love most is that you bring up some broader issues that really add value to the “seniors and technology” conversation. I’ve always admired certain cultures — India for one — where families place more emphasis on caring for and living with their elders, the people without whom they would not even exist. The questions you raise about supporting our senior population are so important! We deliver them meals, help them connect, even give them a ride to the market, but we don’t go beyond to the point of human companionship and connection at a time when they need it most.

The age of smartphones has progressed so quickly that the fact the first iPhone originated just over ten years ago may come as a surprise to many. This development is only one example of a world industrializing at an unprecedented rate. Despite making communication and practically every other aspect of life easier, this revolution may not apply to all — the elderly, as you stated, are often not kept up to date to these new technologies. However, it must be noted that other adults may also not be kept up to date. I believe my parents are a prime example of this. They both immigrated to the United States in the 1980s and made a decent living running a restaurant. However, when it came time to digitalize, they struggled and required my older sister’s assistance to facilitate this new aspect of the business. Now that she’s off to college, it’s my turn to fulfill this position of filling out online documents and forms. This is a growing problem as it is a given that technology will only advance forward, regardless of whether there are those who are unable to utilize these new advantages. That is why I find programs like yours to be so fascinating and thoughtful. My mother has recently taken up taking computer classes, where she learns basic computer navigation skills. It is essential for the whole population to collectively adapt as a whole.

Alvin I appreciate the idea of showing seniors how to fill out forms online, and all of the elements involved in that process.

I certainly agree with Jordan that technology helps us stay connected. It is very important that we help the elderly members of the society on the use of technology. It is not easy to teach the older generation to use technology, as they are not quite familiar with it.

Moreover, I have also had a similar experience with my grandmother who just got a new iPhone and she did not know how to use it properly. Though she was able to make her daily phone calls and read her WhatsApp messages, she did not know how to access the Internet, do Face time and little other stuff. One day during the never-ending lockdown, I decided to teach my grandmother how to use her new phone. Since, she was having sleepless nights due to the change in her sleep cycle because of lockdown, I first taught her how to use YouTube so that she could put spiritual music on it and have good sleep. As days progressed I taught her how to access the daily news online, face timing, texting and many more things. This also gave me an opportunity to spend quality time with my grandmother, which I could not during my school days. My grandmother had a habit of doing all her office-work on paper so, later I started teaching her to use the laptop to check few mails and tally her accounts. This whole process not only helped her a great deal by making her work a lot easier, but also it helped me become more patient by answering the same quarries that she had again and again.

There have been vast advancements in technology over the years and it has helped us in many ways, such as online classes and courses, which are the most helpful things at the moment. By helping the elderly members of the society as to how technology can be used, bridges the generation gap and will help the society progress faster.

I’ve spent a lot of time helping relatives with technology and sometimes it can get very frustrating but I remember that they didn’t grow up with this like we did. So I am more patient and don’t get mad because I love my relatives. What Jordan is doing is really important, especially during this pandemic. The elderly are the most impacted in my opinion, because many of them lack technological experience. His Zoom meetings are a great idea though, keeping the elderly learning and up to date with technology so they can stay connected.

The younger generation is lucky. Since we were young, we have had access to electronic products. Elders often see their grandchildren typing like a speed of light with two thumbs on the keyboard or on the phone, while they themselves can only type letter by letter or word by word with their index fingers. Many elders have only had access to technologies in the past 15 to 20 years. We sometimes get annoyed when they want to learn how to use technology. But when thinking about our situations, aren’t we like them when we are trying to figure out how to solve a simple math question? We see the technologies are easy for us to learn and use, but the elders must take a long time to get used to using technologies.

The last time I saw my grandmother in person was five years ago, but we are able to FaceTime each other at least once a week. When I visited her in China five years ago, I saw her struggling to send a message on WeChat or even make a simple phone call. She would forget which group chat is which and would constantly send private messages in group chats with other family members in it. When I started teaching her how to use WeChat, I saw my grandma was listening to what I was saying very carefully. I taught her how to use WeChat for video calls, voice calls, and many other functions of the app. Later, she took her cellphone and just pressed on it casually trying to use the phone herself. This makes me think that the elders are still very curious to learn new things and look forward to more connections with others so as not to be disconnected from society.

Although she still struggles with using keyboards, my grandma has greatly increased her ability to use her phone. Now she is able to shop online and play simple games on her phone like mahjong and Candy Crush. She sends us many photos of places she has visited and writes that she wishes to take me on one of her trips. Communication is a bridge to build interpersonal relationships. From sharing feelings to expressing ideas, the world requires us to communicate with others. Not just through face-to-face communication, but also through technologies, we are able to share our feelings with others through a simple call or message. Especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, we find communication important with family members or friends or co-workers through technologies. We have stayed home for more than one and a half months, and we would need to communicate with our parents almost every day and stay with them 24/7 face-to-face. We might not know how to have a conversation with them before, but with this pandemic, we might have no choice but to speak with them. We have learned that communicating with them is not as hard as we thought, and moreover, it is enjoyable to hear stories from our parents or other elders in the family. The elders are aging every day and we are growing up every day. It is hard for us to frequently see each other in real life, so technology is how we would connect and communicate with them.

What a sensational experience, Jordan! I enjoyed reading your stories, and I was astonished at how your involvement with elders related to mine.

As another member of Generation Z, technology and the rapid advancement of modern devices have always piqued my interest. Due to my eagerness, I grew up as a tech nerd, earning the title of “tech guy” in the family. “Alvin, why is my wifi not connecting?” “Alvin, what’s wrong with our TV?” “Alvin, why is my Bluetooth not connecting?” At least five times a day, I would hear such questions from my parents and brothers. From simple wifi connection problems to complicated home appliance control systems, I had to be present if the issues involved technology.

My title became significant as COVID invaded our lives. Similar to your experience, my grandparents struggled the most as the majority of platforms and services turned online. Since my grandparents were in a higher-risk group for exposure to COVID, they had to be extremely cautious. They could not go outside to get food or to their workplace. Whether they liked it or not, they had to stay home and adapt to online platforms to order food and attend Zoom meetings. And, as the “tech guy” of the family, I was responsible for providing comfort for my grandparents. Starting from scratch, I had to water down difficult technological terminologies such as Airdrop, iCloud, and Bluetooth to help them rapidly adapt to new lifestyles. Such experiences were similar to teaching elementary schoolers about calculus, in which I realized how uncomfortable it was for my grandparents to utilize new technologies. For instance, Bluetooth features offer wireless connections within the comfort of one’s own vicinity, which is one of the reasons why younger generations utilize Bluetooth: it provides comfort. On the other hand, older generations have an arduous time figuring out how to connect devices using Bluetooth since they are unfamiliar with such features. It is true that consumers are attracted to more comfortable features, and businesses provide new technologies that could reduce time management for consumers. However, it creates a downside for older generations, making them take longer to do something. While convenience for the younger generations increases with the use of technology, the older generations are having difficulty adapting to rapid technological advancement.

By observing the hardships of older generations from my grandparents’ perspective, I thought there was a need for action. Although there are various ways to address such issues, I focused on a fundamental need for everyone: food.

Therefore, I gathered up my close friends, Robert and Kaiden, who shared similar visions regarding this issue, and we came up with an accessible software that will make it approachable for elders to order food from nearby food centers. Essentially, our solution focused on a sustainable, healthy, and accessible approach that is similar to your experience helping elders order groceries. We developed a food ordering app that sends prepackaged, nutritious meals to seniors who sign up for it. Our sign-up system is very simple since it could be pre-installed on phones, involves one click of a button, and has well-explained and accessible payment methods; for example, this service allows the program to automatically extract money from the elder’s source of payment which minimizes the complicated process of payment process every. Ultimately, elders can readily receive healthy and hearty meals at their doorstep. We also utilized the Zoom recording function to create tutorials to help elders navigate through our process. These methods of solution could sound ironic at first, but I believe the most effective solution for elders who are uncomfortable with technology is to expose them to an extent of unfamiliarity to reduce their discomfort.

Like most other start-ups, our application lacks feasibility, so initially, we must test it on a small group of elders and make adjustments. If our test proves to be successful, we will launch our application, which will familiarize elders with technology and aid them in accepting and embracing modern devices. Moreover, I would like to expand this business into providing food and holding online classes about ordering goods, entertainment, media, and safe technology use for elders. I would happily like to share words with you about this matter, and I want to resemble your helping and enthusiastic attitude towards social advancement.

Wow! This is a really beautiful essay. It inspires me to see a fellow teenager making such a positive impact in the world today.

Technology is one of the major generational gaps we have today, and it is very refreshing and encouraging to see someone trying to bridge that gap. I love your teaching strategy of showing instead of just telling. That is truly one of the best ways to explain. You made an astounding impact in a dreary and challenging time for many. As someone who teaches children in a local orphanage home, I can relate to the indescribable feeling of joy you get when your student finally understands.

I will also like to place emphasis on not just teaching seniors how to navigate the internet, but also on teaching them how to be safe while navigating the internet! Cyber crimes are increasing in a very tremendous way all over the world, as more people look for illegal means to usurp unknowing people. This is one of the major fears of seniors and the older generation concerning technology. I believe that teaching them how to best stay safe in the ‘dangerous’ global world provided by the internet would not just be beneficial to them, but it would also help in further bridging the generational gap.

Chidera, your comment is one that caught my attention. Your comment highlights a crucial aspect of our society today: the technology generation gap. Most importantly, the issue of cyber crimes. Indeed, with the rapid advancement of technology, it becomes increasingly challenging for elderly to keep up. Even some of us from younger generations struggle with mastering the intricacies of various tools and software, like navigating Google spreadsheets.

But you draw attention to the pressing issue of cybersecurity and cybercrime, which poses a significant threat to people of all ages, including the elderly. Even myself, who is clearly not an elderly person, receives tons and tons of spam messages and emails trying to trick me of my money. While these scams may not work on us, they can be extremely tempting for the elderly, who may be more vulnerable to such tactics.

For example, my friend’s grandma was a victim to these scams, falling victim to a company promising to save money for her granddaughter’s college tuition fee. This just highlights your point on the emphasis and awareness that should be put on cyber crimes. It demonstrates how easily elderly individuals can be targeted and deceived and the urgency of addressing the dangers they face while navigating the Internet.

Likewise, in the effort to bridge the technology generation gap, I believe that it is crucial to not only teach the elderly how to use technology but also raise awareness to the public about the prevalence of cybercrime and the importance of robust cybersecurity. By empowering people of all ages with knowledge and strategies to protect themselves online, we can help them become more confident and secure users of digital tools.

I truly believe that with stronger cybersecurity implementation and the awareness we can teach people about, the challenges of cyber crimes is one we can focus less on. Allowing us to focus more on bridging this generational gap, being able to facetime our loved ones, and even send them cool gadgets.

I think this is an amazing and much needed program! People tend to alienate the elderly from our evolving world, waving them off as they say, “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.” This is incredibly isolating and unfair to them. A month ago, I helped organize a ceremony for my high school, and many senior citizens came to support their grandchildren. The program for the ceremony was online, and I watched many of them struggle to scan a QR code. It was clear they were embarrassed, and they deserve to spend the day celebrating their family rather than feeling ashamed.

It’s also important to recognize that technology can help them stay busy. Many of the elderly cannot drive or live very far from their families. My grandparents live across the world in India. They are retired, and travel is very hard for them. They don’t typically have much to do, and they can get bored and demoralized. However, my grandpa stays busy and keeps his mind sharp by playing sudoku on his iPad. My grandma loves to play candy crush or call her relatives. Teaching the elderly how to use technology can be more helpful than most realize.

Your example with your grandparents proves an important point about how technology is capable of managing and improving the quality of life of older adults through continuous mental stimulation and social contact.

More specifically, we should consider how within health care for the elderly, technology could play a role. It is now possible to bring medical assistance right into the living room of senior citizens through telemedicine, which is more particularly necessary for those who are immobile or far from healthcare facilities. In addition, wearable health devices track vital signs and warn caregivers or healthcare professionals of emergencies for increased safety and peace of mind.

By accepting and showing old people how to use this technology, we can contribute to maintaining independence and improving the quality of life of every population. It touches both their practical needs and makes them feel valued and included in our rapidly changing world. I strongly find that it is highly commendable on your part and Jordan’s regarding bridging this gap and thus inspiring others to identify and act on the potential benefits the technology offers to our senior population.

Jordan’s story is truly inspiring as his project helps us, as a society, to see the value of empowering our elders. Equipping and educating senior citizens on technology use does more than just allow them to connect with their families and friends but I believe it also improves their mental health via their perception of self-worth and identity. In the last decade, I’ve seen my grandparents withdraw more and more from society as the young grandchildren, who they often took to school and parks, did not need them anymore and their physical health began to decline. Too often the elderly suffer isolation from not only their families and friends but also the evolving world.The isolation in a physical and digital sense stops this flow of information, and thus education for them. My grandparents used to sit in silence with an expression of deep sadness and a personal confession of despairing uselessness. It seems that they are unable to feel that sense of accomplishment that we as students may experience when we receive that favorable mark on an exam.

However, when I successfully taught my grandparents to use their new phones they lit up with the excitement of being able to do things for themselves again. I saw them smile while reading the latest news online and laugh with old friends over the phone, leaving the fog of melancholy behind. Thus, I strongly believe in the potential to further the use of technology and educating senior citizens to help them discover new hobbies (ie. digital art, writing blogs, virtual dance classes) new selves, and their own power that makes them so unique, human, and worthy of all.

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Home — Essay Samples — Life — Elderly — Working with the Elderly

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Working with The Elderly

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Published: Sep 7, 2023

Words: 748 | Pages: 2 | 4 min read

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The significance of working with the elderly, the qualities required for working with the elderly, the impact on caregivers, the impact on seniors, challenges and rewards.

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Caring for the Elderly Essays

by Saira (Regina)

helping the elderly essay




it was a very nice essay but you can add some more points like children getting affected by the behaviour of their parents towards their grandparents
Feb 25, 2017



I like this essay. Simple yet effective. :)
Feb 25, 2017



Really good.... i like it....👍👍👍
Feb 27, 2017



Nice essay
I like it so much
Feb 27, 2017



Nice and beautiful
Feb 27, 2017



very nice 👍👍👍👍👌👍

Feb 27, 2017



Actually it can have more points like what they expect......and many more
Feb 27, 2017



Intelligent
Mar 07, 2017



I think your essay is exceptionally good and who would've thought that we were thinking of the same thing... twups😆😊😊😊😊👍👍👏👏👏
Sep 25, 2017



it is a wonderful essay i loved it i got 20/20 in writing this thank u very much
Oct 30, 2017



Effectively
Dec 27, 2017



It is very nice I have got 20/20in essay writing
Jan 12, 2018



Its really good
Jan 13, 2018



its really good.It helped me in my Homework
I love it.....
Thank u...
Feb 07, 2018



good
Feb 24, 2018



Not very good.
Nov 08, 2018



It is very efffective essay
Jul 29, 2019



Old age is the period which requires more care in the life cycle of human beings. it is common in Britain for the old people to stay away from the family and living in a old age home along with nurses to look after 24/7. In some cases, government used to provide the necessary fund for their expenses. However I strongly believe that the family is having the full responsibility to pay the expenditures. This essay will discuss the reasons to support my opinion.
First and foremost is that dumping the parents to any old age home without taking responsibility is not a good practice. In otherwords it is always better to allow them to stay with their family which makes them more comfortable rather than staying away from home. Additionally, children have to grow up with their grandparents which can deliver happiness to them. Furthermore, young people will realise the value of relationship and love in the family. One of the solution to look after the old people if the family is busy with the work, then they can appoint a paid servant to take care of them.

In some cases where people are not able to stay with their old parents, then it is good for the old to live with the same age group under the supervision of home nurses. Government has not required to pay the fees of the home stay unless and only if the family had died due to natural disasters. For instance, the Indonesian government had taken the full responsibility of old people who lost their family in the most frightening earthquake happened in 2011.

In conclusion, i agree that for certain cases it is the duty of government to pay the expenses for the old people because they are still the citizen of the country.
Jun 19, 2022



it helped me a lot in my work it is very good
Jun 24, 2022



To assume that everyone should be responsible for their elderly parents is also assuming that everyone has
had a perfect relationship with one or both of them. Not always the case. I could go on but won’t.
Jun 09, 2024



It is a good Caring for the Elderly Essay writing for me. It is a intelligent thing to do. I wrote in my homework. So it is a very useful information with writing.

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Paying for the Care of the Elderly

by Zeki (İstanbul)

In Britain, when someone gets old they often go to live in a home with other old people where there are nurses to look after them. Sometimes the government has to pay for this care. Who do you think should pay for this care, the government or the family? Generally, old people need help and someone should interest them. There are many home in Britain for help this old people. Also many old people could not retired and have not regularly income. For this reason, the government must pay fort his care. Other retired has an income and they can pay and they must pay to care expence themselves. Nowadays, old people need a home because they can not live alone. For this reason, they need old people’s home. This home must have nurses and have an emergency room because old people can be sich and nurses urgently should help them. As we know, the old people’s home have many expenses, for example food, home’s rent, pills, bills and employee salary like that. For this reason, this houses need regularly income but as i said many old people have not pension and old people’s expence should pay by the government. Other case is retired. They have regularly income and they can pay expense themselves. The government should not pay but if they pension is not enough, the government should pay but, if they pension is enough, the government should not pay. Maybe, the government can pay medical expense them. Because they pension is not enough for medical expense and the government can be help them in this case. To sum up, in my opinion, the government must help old people and if they have not regularly income, the government must pay expense them. For example, medical expense or old people’s home expense. But if retired have a regularly income, the government just can pay medical expense them. I think, the government more than better manage budget for retired or old people expense. *** You can comment below on this Essay on Paying for the Care of the Elderly.




Could someone assesment my grammatical or topic mistakes? Thank you.
Sep 11, 2015



Hi,
It would be better if you add some points by including Family members. Because, the family members have the equal right to take care of their parents when they are old.
Jun 28, 2016



1. Improve your vocabulary.
2. Improve your grammar (use more complex sentences)
3. Your ideas could be great but they are developed in a clumsy way.
Jan 31, 2017



The words written truly can't be expressed as we all know that the elderly are the ones who take care of us when we are younger and when they became old what do we do?

Why don't we care for them at that time but in my opinion we must care for the.

Such an inspiring essay truly heart touching. By reading this we can understand our responsibility towards them.

THANKYOU
Feb 27, 2017



Nice but not so good because some other facts should also be included in this essay.
Feb 27, 2017



nice
Feb 27, 2017



Best to learn easy to learn
Mar 07, 2017



I get all your point but I think you should work on your spelling and sentence structure....✌✌
Sep 25, 2017



many grammatical errors. not upto mark

Oct 24, 2017



Hi, just wondering, this is a "Discussion essay" or "Opinion essay"?

Thanks in advance.

Ana Paula.
Oct 27, 2017



It would be on Opinion essay.
Dec 02, 2017



An awesome essay
Jan 15, 2020



Very nice essay for those who hate their old parents
Nov 03, 2020



In this world nothing comes for free, not even getting care by others. Old age homes in Britain provide care from nurses to old people , for which most of them time government has to pay. I believe both family and government should pay for this kind services.

I would like to begin by saying that throughout the life a person do hardwork to earn money, build a family, live a healthy life. As old age approaches, neither the ability to work hard is left nor the family is there to look after. Old age is a bitter truth of the entire journey of life. In order to build and grow a healthy family, often we overlook our own health, happiness, well-being. As a moral duty, the family should stand by their old age family members. We should not leave them at the pretext of old age services. Even in worst cases , if anyone can not mange to look after their old members, they should be at least paying for the services heir old age members getting.

The government too has a vital role to play, by partially paying the fee of old age care systems. I believe, during adulthood all of the life a person pay taxes to the government to get access to all services like , roads, rails, water, house, hospital. So, during old age when hardly anyone stands by you, the government should take care of our basic requirements.

At the end, I would conclude by saying, apart from paying the expenses of care system. I do believe , government should make laws for younger people to stay with their old age family members for throughout their lives. It doesn't sound morally correct to leave the older ones as this the time when they need their loved ones the most.


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Guide to Exam

A Complete Essay on Caring for the Elderly

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Essay on caring for the Elderly: – Here are a number of essays on the Essay on caring for the Elderly of varying lengths for the students of different standards. You can also use these caring for the elderly essays to craft an article on elderly care or material for speech on elderly care as well.

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Table of Contents

Essay on caring for the Elderly (50 Words)

Image of Essay on caring for the Elderly

Taking care of the elderly is a responsibility that everyone should take. The elders spend the major part of their lives in the building and shaping our life and carrier, and thus it is our responsibility to repay them in their old age.

Unfortunately, in today’s world, some youth ignore their responsibility towards their parents and prefer to put them in old age homes rather than provide shelter to them. They should know how to take care of old people. We have also elderly care law in our country to protect the elderly from deprivation.

Essay on caring for the Elderly (100 Words)

It is a moral duty of us to take care of the elderly. Being a responsible person we should know how to take care of old people. Our parents or elders sacrifice their golden days with smiling faces in shaping our life.

During their old days, they also want support, love, and care from us. So we need to provide assistance to them during their old days. But unfortunately, today’s youths are seen ignoring their moral duties.

Some youths consider their parents a burden on them in their old days and prefer to keep them in old age homes. This is very unfortunate. One day when they will get old, they will understand the importance of elderly care.

Essay on caring for the Elderly

(Caring for the Elderly essay in 150 words)

Getting old is a natural process. During old age, people need the utmost love and care. Caring for the elderly is not only a responsibility but also a moral duty. Old people are the backbone of a family.

They are well experienced with the hardships of life. It is said that life teaches us lessons. Old people teach us how to grow, how to survive in this world, and how to shape our carrier as well. They establish us in this world with their immense effort. It is our responsibility to pay them back during their old age.

Unfortunately, in today’s world, the youths are seen forgetting their moral duties towards elders. They aren’t ready to understand the importance of elderly care and instead of caring for their parents during their old age, they prefer to send them to old age homes.

They prefer to live an independent life rather than living with their parents. This is not a good sign for our society. Being social animals we need to know how to take care of old people.

Essay on caring for the Elderly (200 Words)

(Caring for the Elderly essay)

Elderly refers to old people who have crossed middle age. Old age is the final period of human life. During this time a person needs love and affection and proper elderly care. It is said that caring for the elderly is the moral duty of every man.

Generally, an old person faces different health issues and thus he or she needs proper care. The length of an old person’s life depends on how much care he/she gets. Taking care of the elderly is not a naïve task.

The care needs for the elderly are very limited.  An old man doesn’t have much requirement. He /she only needs a little affection, care, and a homely environment to spend his/her final stage of life.

We all should know how to take care of old people. But in today’s busy schedule some people consider the elderly a burden. They even don’t want to spare time for their parents. And thus they prefer to put their old parents in old age homes rather than taking care of them.

This is nothing but a shameful act. Being a human we all should know the importance of elderly care. In every country, there are different laws to protect the elderly. But the elderly care law can’t do anything if we don’t change our mindset.

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Essay on caring for the Elderly : Considerations

Caring for the elderly is specialized care that is designed to meet the requirements and needs of senior citizens of various age groups. Nowadays, some children sent their parents to old age homes to avoid the responsibility of caring.

Though most of the Indian families take special care of their parents, unfortunately, there are few people who start to treat their parents as liabilities after a certain age.

It’s a challenging task to find appropriate and affordable elder care and assistance. Consultation with medical and eldercare professionals is required to determine exactly what type of care is required.

Family members are usually the first to identify the need of elders after discussing with Doctors. Depending upon the type of health condition he or she is suffering, the type of elderly care required can be determined.

The Importance of Caring for Our Elderly Essay

Image of Caring for the elderly essay of 200 Words

Caring for the elderly is treated as one of the most important things in an Indian Family. As an Indian, deciding how to provide care for elderly parents is one of the biggest decisions a family has to make.

Though some elderly persons don’t require any type of care to live life independently, a general decline in the health of the person often leads to the requirement of elder care.

As soon as we notice any changes in the health condition of an elderly aged person, we immediately discuss the matter with doctors and other family members without any delay. Before getting started, we must ask some simple questions to them.

  • In order to ensure long-term safety, what type of care is needed for him?
  • What types of elderly care services should be used to provide care for them?
  • What will be our financial limitations of providing elder care?

Quotes on caring for the elderly – how to take care of old people

These amazing quotes will describe.

“To care for those who once cared for us is one of the highest honors.”

― Tia Walker

“Caregiving often calls us to lean into love we didn’t know possible.”

“Love, care and treasure the elderly people in the society.”

― Lailah Gifty Akita

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Essay on Importance of Education in Our Life

3 thoughts on “A Complete Essay on Caring for the Elderly”

I want an essay saying like i helped a elderly person on the street and that and this nkt like this

Can you help me in my developing country to start my organization to look after elderly people on my own in my country please my email address is [email protected]

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Essay on Caring For The Elderly – Short & Long Essay Examples

Short Essay on Caring For The Elderly

Essay on Caring For The Elderly : As our population ages, the need for caring for the elderly becomes increasingly important. In this essay, we will explore the various ways in which we can support and care for our elderly population.

From providing emotional support to ensuring their physical well-being, there are many ways in which we can show our love and appreciation for the elderly members of our community. Join us as we delve into the importance of caring for the elderly and the impact it can have on their overall well-being.

Table of Contents

Caring For The Elderly Essay Writing Tips

1. Introduction : Start your essay by introducing the topic of caring for the elderly. Explain why it is important to discuss this issue and provide some background information on the challenges faced by the elderly population.

2. Define the term “elderly” : Define who the elderly are and what age group falls under this category. Discuss the physical, emotional, and social needs of the elderly population.

3. Discuss the importance of caring for the elderly : Explain why it is important to care for the elderly and the benefits of providing them with proper care and support. Highlight the contributions that the elderly have made to society and the wisdom they can offer.

4. Challenges faced by the elderly : Discuss the challenges faced by the elderly population, such as physical health issues, loneliness, financial insecurity, and lack of access to proper healthcare. Explain how these challenges can impact their overall well-being.

5. Ways to care for the elderly : Provide tips and strategies on how to care for the elderly effectively. This can include providing emotional support, helping with daily tasks, ensuring they have access to proper healthcare, and creating a safe and comfortable living environment for them.

6. Importance of social interaction : Emphasize the importance of social interaction for the elderly and how it can improve their mental and emotional well-being. Encourage readers to spend time with the elderly, listen to their stories, and engage in activities that they enjoy.

7. The role of caregivers : Discuss the role of caregivers in caring for the elderly and the importance of providing them with support and resources. Highlight the challenges faced by caregivers and the need for proper training and education in elderly care.

8. Conclusion : Summarize the key points discussed in the essay and reiterate the importance of caring for the elderly. Encourage readers to take action and make a difference in the lives of the elderly population in their communities.

9. Additional resources : Provide information on organizations and resources that offer support and assistance for the elderly and caregivers. Encourage readers to seek out these resources for further information and assistance.

Essay on Caring For The Elderly in 10 Lines – Examples

1. Provide emotional support and companionship to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. 2. Assist with daily tasks such as meal preparation, medication management, and personal hygiene. 3. Ensure a safe and comfortable living environment by removing hazards and installing necessary aids. 4. Encourage physical activity and exercise to maintain mobility and prevent muscle weakness. 5. Monitor and manage chronic health conditions through regular check-ups and medication adherence. 6. Foster mental stimulation through activities like puzzles, games, and social interactions. 7. Offer transportation assistance for medical appointments, grocery shopping, and social outings. 8. Advocate for their needs and rights in healthcare settings and other institutions. 9. Provide respite care for family caregivers to prevent burnout and promote their own well-being. 10. Show respect, patience, and empathy in all interactions to promote a sense of dignity and worth.

Sample Essay on Caring For The Elderly in 100-180 Words

Caring for the elderly is a responsibility that should be taken seriously by society. As people age, they may become more vulnerable and in need of assistance with daily tasks. It is important to show compassion and empathy towards the elderly, as they have contributed to society and deserve to be treated with respect.

There are many ways to care for the elderly, including providing them with emotional support, helping them with household chores, and ensuring they have access to proper medical care. Spending quality time with the elderly can also make a big difference in their lives, as it helps to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation.

In conclusion, caring for the elderly is a noble and important task that should not be taken lightly. By showing kindness and compassion towards the elderly, we can help them live their lives with dignity and respect.

Short Essay on Caring For The Elderly in 200-500 Words

Caring for the elderly is a responsibility that many people face as their loved ones age and require assistance with daily tasks. It is important to provide the necessary care and support to ensure that the elderly maintain a good quality of life and are able to live comfortably in their later years.

One of the key aspects of caring for the elderly is ensuring that their physical needs are met. This includes providing assistance with activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating, as well as ensuring that they have access to proper medical care and medication. It is important to monitor their health and well-being regularly to ensure that any issues are addressed promptly.

In addition to physical care, it is also important to provide emotional support to the elderly. Many elderly individuals may feel isolated or lonely, especially if they are living alone or have limited contact with family and friends. Spending time with them, listening to their concerns, and engaging in activities that they enjoy can help to improve their emotional well-being and overall quality of life.

Another important aspect of caring for the elderly is ensuring that they are able to maintain their independence as much as possible. This may involve making modifications to their living environment to make it more accessible, providing assistance with transportation, or helping them to maintain social connections and engage in activities that they enjoy. By empowering the elderly to remain independent and active, we can help to improve their overall quality of life and sense of well-being.

It is also important to recognize the unique needs and preferences of each individual when providing care for the elderly. Some may require more intensive medical care, while others may simply need assistance with household chores or errands. By taking the time to understand their specific needs and preferences, we can provide more personalized and effective care that meets their individual requirements.

In conclusion, caring for the elderly is a vital responsibility that requires compassion, patience, and dedication. By providing physical care, emotional support, and opportunities for independence, we can help to improve the quality of life for the elderly and ensure that they are able to live comfortably and happily in their later years. It is important to approach caregiving with empathy and understanding, and to always prioritize the well-being and dignity of the elderly individuals we are caring for.

Essay on Caring For The Elderly in 1000-1500 Words

Caring for the elderly is a responsibility that many of us will face at some point in our lives. As our population ages, the need for elderly care is becoming increasingly important. It is essential that we provide the necessary support and care for our elderly loved ones to ensure they have a comfortable and fulfilling life in their later years.

There are many reasons why caring for the elderly is important. Firstly, it is a way to show respect and gratitude for the contributions that they have made to society throughout their lives. Many elderly individuals have worked hard and sacrificed a great deal to provide for their families and communities. It is only fair that we repay them with the care and support they need in their old age.

Secondly, caring for the elderly is a way to ensure that they have a good quality of life in their later years. As people age, they may face a range of physical and mental health challenges that can impact their ability to live independently. By providing them with the necessary care and support, we can help them maintain their dignity and independence for as long as possible.

Additionally, caring for the elderly is important for our own personal growth and development. Taking care of an elderly loved one can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience that can teach us valuable lessons about compassion, patience, and empathy. It can also help us to appreciate the importance of family and community in our lives.

There are many ways in which we can care for the elderly. One of the most important ways is through providing them with physical care and assistance. This may involve helping them with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, and eating, as well as ensuring they have access to medical care and medication. It is also important to ensure that their living environment is safe and comfortable, and that they have access to social activities and companionship.

Another important aspect of caring for the elderly is providing them with emotional support. As people age, they may experience feelings of loneliness, isolation, and depression. It is important to listen to their concerns, offer them companionship and encouragement, and help them stay connected to their friends and family. By providing them with emotional support, we can help them maintain their mental and emotional well-being.

In addition to physical and emotional care, it is also important to ensure that the elderly have access to social and recreational activities. Many elderly individuals may feel isolated and lonely, especially if they are living alone or in a care facility. By providing them with opportunities to socialize, engage in hobbies, and participate in community events, we can help them stay active and engaged in life.

It is also important to involve the elderly in decision-making about their care and support. They should have a say in the decisions that affect their lives, and their preferences and wishes should be respected. By involving them in the decision-making process, we can help them maintain a sense of autonomy and control over their lives.

Caring for the elderly can be a challenging and demanding task, but it is also a deeply rewarding and fulfilling experience. By providing them with the care and support they need, we can help them live their later years with dignity, comfort, and happiness. It is important that we recognize the importance of caring for the elderly and make it a priority in our lives. By doing so, we can ensure that our elderly loved ones receive the care and support they deserve in their later years.

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Essay on How to Help Old People

Students are often asked to write an essay on How to Help Old People in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on How to Help Old People

Understanding their needs.

Old people often need help with daily activities. They might require assistance with cooking, cleaning, or personal care. Understand their needs to offer appropriate help.

Providing Emotional Support

Old people can feel lonely. Be there for them. Listen to their stories, share yours, and keep them involved in your life. This emotional support can make them happier.

Ensuring Their Safety

Old people may have mobility issues. Make sure their living space is safe by removing trip hazards and installing handrails if necessary.

Helping with Health Care

Old people may have health problems. Accompany them to doctor appointments, help manage medications, and ensure they are eating healthily.

250 Words Essay on How to Help Old People

Understanding the needs of the elderly, providing physical assistance.

Physical health issues are common in old age. Elderly individuals may require assistance with daily tasks such as meals, personal hygiene, and mobility. Offering help in these areas can significantly improve their quality of life.

Supporting Emotional Well-being

Old age can often be a lonely period. Many elderly people lose their partners and friends, which can lead to feelings of isolation. Emotional support, such as regular visits, conversations, and shared activities, can help combat these feelings and promote mental health.

Enhancing Cognitive Health

Cognitive abilities can decline with age. Engaging the elderly in brain-stimulating activities like puzzles, reading, or learning new skills can help maintain their cognitive health and independence.

Advocating for Elderly Rights

Elderly individuals often face social and economic challenges. Advocacy for better healthcare, financial security, and equal treatment can help address these issues. College students can play a crucial role in this advocacy by raising awareness and volunteering in organizations that support elderly rights.

In conclusion, helping the elderly requires a comprehensive approach that addresses their physical, emotional, and cognitive needs, and advocates for their rights. This not only improves their quality of life but also enriches our society as a whole.

500 Words Essay on How to Help Old People

Physical assistance.

The first point of focus is physical assistance. As individuals age, their strength and agility decline, making daily tasks challenging. Helping them with household chores, shopping, or even personal care can significantly enhance their quality of life. It’s also essential to ensure they have regular health check-ups, and their medications are managed effectively.

Mental and Emotional Support

Elderly people often grapple with loneliness, depression, and cognitive decline. Providing emotional support can help alleviate these issues. Regular conversations, active listening, and empathy can go a long way in making them feel valued and understood. Additionally, encouraging them to engage in mental exercises like puzzles, reading, or memory games can help keep cognitive disorders at bay.

Social Engagement

Advocacy and respect.

Elderly individuals have the right to be treated with dignity and respect. Advocating for their rights, whether it’s in healthcare, housing, or legal matters, is a crucial aspect of helping them. It’s important to ensure their voices are heard and their needs are met.

Use of Technology

In this digital age, technology can be a powerful tool in assisting the elderly. Teaching them to use smartphones, computers, or tablets can help them stay connected with family and friends, access online services, and even pursue hobbies.

Helping the elderly requires a comprehensive approach that addresses their physical, mental, and social needs. It’s about creating an environment where they feel valued, respected, and engaged. By understanding their needs and providing the right support, we can ensure they enjoy their golden years with dignity and happiness.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

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Study Today

Largest Compilation of Structured Essays and Exams

Helping your Elders Short Essay for Children & Students

December 2, 2017 by Study Mentor Leave a Comment

“Happiness begins from doing something for others and not for ourselves”. Purpose of life is not to serve you but to serve others because it is said that what you give returns to you. Elders are generally the person older than you or an individual.

He/she are the one who holds seniority or any higher authority to any concern. Helping elders is a basic manner that is being shown to the elder person. It shows sign of gratitude towards the concern and is a matter of honoring someone.

 Helping someone in any manner is concerned as a good deed especially the elder and older people because they live for many years and had gained lots of experience of life and when we talk, spend time and help them gives us the opportunity to gain a very deep knowledge of something and it results in self-development and growth.

Who are elders?

  • Parents, grandparents, relatives
  • Elder brothers and sisters

Table of Contents

What do elders gives us?

  • Experience of life
  • Enjoy everyone movement of life
  • Strengthens Patience, empathy and Tolerance level
  • Know funny history facts and traditions
  • Humanity (generous and kindness)

helping elders

Spending time elders helps to gain experience, knowledge, morals, values and gratitude.

Spending more time with them makes happy to both, you and the one with you are spending time. We also learn how to treat anyone, love others, respect others, care others, help others, forgive others, accept others; in short, face all the phases of life.

It is rightly said “It is better to give rather than take” and we should always be ready to give others rather than take something. We should not focus on how much you give rather than focus on how much you love to give something to others and this should be selfless giving.

While giving something we must take transparent decisions and these decisions must be proactive rather than reactive and the most important thing is that don’t feel guilty about the giving nature.

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11 Ways to Help the Elderly to Make a Difference 

Help the elderly

The elderly is the stage of life rich in experiences and wisdom. It is when humans can take a respite from the busy schedules of working and parenting finally. As a popular belief goes, the elderly is a new childhood. Unfortunately, not many aged people are blessed to receive the care and love they expect. 

Statistics reveal that:

  • In India, 15 million senior citizens live alone, of which 75% are women. 
  • The ratio of elderly in India with no one to take care of them in their house is 1:7.

Many elderly go through silent depression for various reasons. Factors such as lack of caretakers, people that spend quality time, age-related health troubles, loss of life partner, limited social life can impact their mental well-being.

Not many elderly speak out about their problems with a notion, not to trouble others. However, one should take the responsibility of caring for their emotional well-being and make a difference in their lives.

help the elderly

To uplift the spirits of the elderly that need emotional support, you need not be a full-time caregiver. A little compassion, kindness, and offering a helping hand as and when possible is one of the tacit things to help the elderly at home.

Whether you are looking for how to help the elderly at home or committed to helping the elderly in their homes, here are simple yet change bringing tips that will work. 

Table of Contents

#1: Offer help even if it’s small

Your neighbouring grandpa might be living alone, and he may not be familiar with the technology. Spend a weekend evening with him and guide how to pay bills or shop for things online. Assist him with understanding how technology is a 24×7 caretaker that is just a click away.

Likewise, help the neighbouring elderly mow their lawn or to get a routine check-up for their pet. Enquire if they need something from the store if you are heading out to one. 

Offering help with small things is one of the things to help the elderly at home and alleviate their mental burden.

#2: Spend quality time

You need not disturb your daily schedule to make a difference in the life of the elderly. Spending quality time is one of the fruitful ideas for helping the elderly.

The few minutes in a day you spend with your aged father, mother, grandpa, or grandma – spend with quality. Mute your mobile phones and ignore the notifications. 

Listen to what the elderly says with attention. Talk to them wholeheartedly as it can mean a lot to them.

#3: Elders love fun too

Elders love fun. They just don’t express their love for it. Adding a dose of fun to the routine of the elderly can keep age-related depression at bay.

Take them out every once in a while. Watch fun movies along with them at home. Make your children play with them. Gather your friends and relatives for fun weekends at home.

#4: Surprise with gifts

Giving gifts to the elderly is one of the ignored ideas for helping the elderly. Gifts can boost the emotional well-being of the recipient. And elderly is not an exception.

Surprise the elderly at your home or in the community with meaningful gifts. You need not splurge on gifts to surprise them. Make the gifts sensible so that they come to help in their daily lives.

For instance, you could take a subscription to their health apps. Similarly, you may surprise them by gifting a quality walking stick. A warm sweater, a dress in their favourite colour, an organic metabolism-boosting health hamper, or walking shoes make excellent gift choices for the elderly.

#5: Listen to them

Living alone can deprive the company of the elderly. It makes them yearn for people who can listen to them.

The generation of the elderly is the witness to many fascinating aspects that people these days cannot even imagine. By listening to them, we can acquire their precious knowledge and wisdom. 

Patient listeners can help alleviate depression in people. And studies confirm it. Thus, listening to the elderly in your home and community is one of the excellent ideas for helping the elderly.

#6: Involve your children

Aging is a natural process that no one can escape. Today’s youth is tomorrow’s elderly. When you help the elderly, you are not just helping them but helping yourselves too.

Your children observe what you do and learn from you. It impacts their thought process, and they will realize the importance of helping the elderly at home. 

Thus, teach the necessity and involve your children when you lend a helping hand to your elders.

#7: Teach them something new

Learning new things keeps the brain healthy. It is an excellent way to delay age-related issues such as depression and Alzheimer’s.

Hence, teach something new to the elderly at home. If they love music, enrol them in guitar classes. If there is some long-pending hobby they always wanted to pursue, encourage them to go for it. 

The instances of the elderly pursuing their passion for learning new and graduating and post graduating from universities are all around us. Learning a new language, art, cooking, enrolling in a new course, etc., can keep their brain active as well as helps them to beat their loneliness.

#8: Take them out

Sitting alone at home can deprives the social life of the elderly. Taking the elderly out is one of the ideas to help the elderly.

Take them out as and when possible, to family gatherings and social get-togethers. If their health permits, you could also give them a fresh breath of air through short drives and long trips. 

#9: Ask what they want

Most elderly stay aloof and do not open up about their wants. They could be yearning for simple things like their favourite flavoured ice cream or a visit to their favourite place of worship.

Ask the elderly what they want. Try to fulfil their requests to being cheer on to their face.  

#10: Volunteer at elderly care centres 

Create awareness about the necessity to help the elderly. Offer your services at elderly care centres. It is one of the simplest things you can do without spending money to help the elderly. 

#11: Donate and support the non-profits

Elderly need care in many aspects. To meet the medical, dietary, emotional, and physical support needs, elderly home care centres need financial support.

Offer your donations to elderly home care centres and non-profits that are committed to such causes.

Next time, maybe you can cut down your birthday party expenses by half and donate the other half to the elderly homes.

Anniversaries, birthdays, special occasions, festivals, new year – there are many occasions in a year that you can use to make your donations.

Besides, who is stopping you from becoming a monthly donor and donning a superhuman cape?

Let’s join hands and create awareness about helping the elderly. 

At Cloudely, we care. To help the needy. To bring a change in the world we live in.  Through our non-profit Sri Mathrutva , we have helped thousands of children suffering from Thalassemia and the elderly in care homes. Please learn more about us at www.srimathrutva.org  and support our cause. All donations you make to Sri Mathrutva are tax exempted. Cloudely is a premier global organization in Staffing, Contract Lifecycle Management, Salesforce, and Quote to Cash domains. To avail of our services or partner with us, please email us at  [email protected] . Follow us on LinkedIn for regular updates.

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How to do IELTS

IELTS Essay: Taking Care of Elderly People

by Dave | General Training | 0 Comment

IELTS Essay: Taking Care of Elderly People

This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay from the general training exam on the topic of taking care of elderly people.

If you want to support my efforts to write these essays and also receive my exclusive Ebooks, check out my Patreon !

Many people who care for the elderly do not have enough time to look after them.

What are the problems related to this?

What are some possible solutions?

The caretakers of elderly individuals are often overworked and feel they are neglecting their duties. In my opinion, this hurts quality of care and the best solution is comprehensive, societal reform.

The main issues resulting from lack of time to look after the elderly have to do with poor care. A nurse with several patients to visit, who might all require around the clock care, must prioritise. The neglected patients are then more likely to develop bed sores, poor nutrition, and depression. In more extreme situations, patients with dementia or life-threatening conditions for example, there may be serious injury. An Alzheimer’s patient may wander out of the house, get lost and not be able to find their way home. A critically ill patient may need urgent care and not be able to contact the hospital in an emergency.

These problems can be partly remedied if society felt responsible for the elderly. There are examples of nations, chiefly Asian countries like Japan, where old people are highly respected. This permeates all levels of society and translates to children and grandchildren being more willing to take on the burden of care, as well as more attentive doctors and better government-funded social welfare programs. All these measures combined not only have a tangible, daily impact but also shift the societal mindset from considering the elderly a nuisance to regarding them as a milestone in life that all must pass through, deserving of respect.

In conclusion, the problems related to limited opportunities for looking after the elderly concern their level of care and can be combatted with a number of measures permeating multiple layers of society. Though unlikely, these reforms would evidence a core of human compassion.

1. The caretakers of elderly individuals are often overworked and feel they are neglecting their duties. 2. In my opinion, this hurts quality of care and the best solution is comprehensive, societal reform.

  • Paraphrase the essay topic.
  • Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions for IELTS here .

1. The main issues resulting from lack of time to look after the elderly have to do with poor care. 2. A nurse with several patients to visit, who might all require around the clock care, must prioritise. 3. The neglected patients are then more likely to develop bed sores, poor nutrition, and depression. 4. In more extreme situations, patients with dementia or life-threatening conditions for example, there may be serious injury. 5. An Alzheimer’s patient may wander out of the house, get lost and not be able to find their way home. 6. A critically ill patient may need urgent care and not be able to contact the hospital in an emergency.

  • Write a topic sentence with your main idea at the end.
  • Give a specific example.
  • Develop it fully through the results.
  • Continue the development.
  • Use a similar example for further development.
  • State the full results.

1. These problems can be partly remedied if society felt responsible for the elderly. 2. There are examples of nations, chiefly Asian countries like Japan, where old people are highly respected. 3. This permeates all levels of society and translates to children and grandchildren being more willing to take on the burden of care, as well as more attentive doctors and better government-funded social welfare programs. 4. All these measures combined not only have a tangible, daily impact but also shift the societal mindset from considering the elderly a nuisance to regarding them as a milestone in life that all must pass through, deserving of respect.

  • Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
  • Begin a specific example.
  • Develop it.
  • Make sure that is as fully developed as possible.

1. In conclusion, the problems related to limited opportunities for looking after the elderly concern their level of care and can be combatted with a number of measures permeating multiple layers of society. 2. Though unlikely, these reforms would evidence a core of human compassion.

  • Summarise your main ideas and repeat your opinions.
  • Add a final thought. Read more about conclusions here .

What do the words in bold below mean?

The caretakers of elderly individuals are often overworked and feel they are neglecting their duties . In my opinion, this hurts quality of care and the best solution is comprehensive , societal reform .

The main issues resulting from lack of time to look after the elderly have to do with poor care . A nurse with several patients to visit, who might all require around the clock care , must prioritise . The neglected patients are then more likely to develop bed sores , poor nutrition , and depression . In more extreme situations , patients with dementia or life-threatening conditions for example, there may be serious injury . An Alzheimer’s patient may wander out of the house, get lost and not be able to find their way home. A critically ill patient may need urgent care and not be able to contact the hospital in an emergency .

These problems can be partly remedied if society felt responsible for the elderly. There are examples of nations, chiefly Asian countries like Japan, where old people are highly respected . This permeates all levels of society and translates to children and grandchildren being more willing to take on the burden of care , as well as more attentive doctors and better government-funded social welfare programs . All these measures combined not only have a tangible , daily impact but also shift the societal mindset from considering the elderly a nuisance to regarding them as a milestone in life that all must pass through , deserving of respect .

In conclusion, the problems related to limited opportunities for looking after the elderly concern their level of care and can be combatted with a number of measures permeating multiple layers of society . Though unlikely , these reforms would evidence a core of human compassion .

caretakers people who take care

elderly individuals old people

overworked work too much

neglecting their duties not doing their jobs

quality of care how well someone is looked after

comprehensive complete

societal reform changes to society

main issues resulting from big problems coming from

poor care not well taken care of

several a bunch

around the clock care 24 hour care

prioritise make more important

neglected not paying attention to

bed sores lesions from not moving much

poor nutrition not eating well

depression feeling sad

in more extreme situations some bad cases

dementia forgetting things

life-threatening conditions cancer, paralysis, etc.

serious injury get hurt badly

Alzheimer’s patient condition where the mind deteriorates

wander out go outside

critically ill patient dying person

urgent care emergency situations

contact call

emergency urgent problem

partly remedied somewhat fixed

chiefly mainly

highly respected valued a lot

permeates all levels of society gets to all people

translates to means

take on the burden of care must take care of

attentive concientious

government-funded social welfare programs giving money to old people in retirement plans, checks, etc.

measures combined actions all together

tangible concrete

shift change

societal mindset way that society thinks

considering regarding

nuisance annoying

regarding as it relates to

milestone major moment in life

pass through go through

deserving of respect should be valued

limited opportunities not many chances

concern worry

level of care how well they are taken care of

combatted with fought

number of measures many steps

permeating going through

multiple layers of society many people

unlikely not going to happen probably

evidence support

core of human compassion people caring about others

Pronunciation

ˈkeəˌteɪkəz   ˈɛldəli ˌɪndɪˈvɪdjʊəlz   ˌəʊvəˈwɜːkt   nɪˈglɛktɪŋ ðeə ˈdjuːtiz ˈkwɒlɪti ɒv keə   ˌkɒmprɪˈhɛnsɪv səˈsaɪətl ˌriːˈfɔːm meɪn ˈɪʃuːz rɪˈzʌltɪŋ frɒm   pʊə keə ˈsɛvrəl   əˈraʊnd ðə klɒk keə praɪˈɒrɪˌtaɪz . nɪˈglɛktɪd   bɛd sɔːz pʊə nju(ː)ˈtrɪʃən dɪˈprɛʃən ɪn mɔːr ɪksˈtriːm ˌsɪtjʊˈeɪʃənz dɪˈmɛnʃɪə   laɪf-ˈθrɛtnɪŋ kənˈdɪʃənz   ˈsɪərɪəs ˈɪnʤəri ˈæltsˌhaɪməz ˈpeɪʃənt   ˈwɒndər aʊt   ˈkrɪtɪkəli ɪl ˈpeɪʃənt   ˈɜːʤənt keə   ˈkɒntækt   ɪˈmɜːʤənsi ˈpɑːtli ˈrɛmɪdid   ˈʧiːfli   ˈhaɪli rɪsˈpɛktɪd ˈpɜːmɪeɪts ɔːl ˈlɛvlz ɒv səˈsaɪəti   trænsˈleɪts tuː   teɪk ɒn ðə ˈbɜːdn ɒv keə əˈtɛntɪv   ˈgʌvnmənt-ˈfʌndɪd ˈsəʊʃəl ˈwɛlfeə ˈprəʊgræmz ˈmɛʒəz kəmˈbaɪnd   ˈtænʤəbl ʃɪft   səˈsaɪətl ˈmaɪndsɛt   kənˈsɪdərɪŋ   ˈnjuːsns   rɪˈgɑːdɪŋ   ˈmaɪlstəʊn   pɑːs θruː dɪˈzɜːvɪŋ ɒv rɪsˈpɛkt ˈlɪmɪtɪd ˌɒpəˈtjuːnɪtiz   kənˈsɜːn   ˈlɛvl ɒv keə ˈkɒmbætɪd wɪð   ˈnʌmbər ɒv ˈmɛʒəz   ˈpɜːmɪeɪtɪŋ   ˈmʌltɪpl ˈleɪəz ɒv səˈsaɪəti ʌnˈlaɪkli ˈɛvɪdəns   kɔːr ɒv ˈhjuːmən kəmˈpæʃən

Vocabulary Practice

Remember and fill in the blanks:

The c____________s of e_____________________s are often o________________d and feel they are n_______________________s . In my opinion, this hurts q________________e and the best solution is c_______________e , s______________________m .

The m________________s r__________________m lack of time to look after the elderly have to do with p_____________e . A nurse with s_________l patients to visit, who might all require a______________________e , must p_____________e . The n____________d patients are then more likely to develop b__________s , p_________________n , and d_____________n . I________________________s , patients with d_______________a or l____________________________s for example, there may be s________________y . An A_________________t may w__________t of the house, get lost and not be able to find their way home. A c_____________________t may need u_______________e and not be able to c_________t the hospital in an e______________y .

These problems can be p_________________d if society felt responsible for the elderly. There are examples of nations, c_______y Asian countries like Japan, where old people are h__________________d . This p_________________________y and t________________o children and grandchildren being more willing to t_____________________________e , as well as more a_______________e doctors and better g______________________________________s . All these m___________________d not only have a t___________e , daily impact but also s_____t the s_________________t from c________________g the elderly a n__________e to r_____________g them as a m_________e in life that all must p_____________h , d_________________t .

In conclusion, the problems related to l__________________________s for looking after the elderly c_______________n their l_______________e and can be c________________h a n______________s p________________g m____________________________y . Though u___________y , these reforms would e___________e a c________________________________n .

Listening Practice

Listen more about this topic and use these activities to practice:

Reading Practice

Read about a good example of societal changes in Japan below and practice with these ideas :

https://www.nytimes.com/2017/02/12/world/asia/japan-yokohama-aging-population-food.html

Speaking Practice

Practice with these related questions from the real IELTS speaking exam :

Old People  (Model answer available on my  Patreon )

  • What are the advantages of having an elderly person at home? 
  • Is there anything that older people should learn from the younger generation?
  • What can the younger generation learn from the older generation? 
  • What qualities does a person need to take care of older people? 
  • Do you think elderly people should be allowed to work? 

Writing Practice

Write about the related topic below and check with my sample answer:

Many people think that it is better to get advice from old rather than young people.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Answer Essay General Training: Advice from Old People (Real IELTS Exam/Test)

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178 Interesting Topics in Aging

🏆 best psychology of aging research topics, 👍 good essay topics on aging, ⭐ simple & easy gerontology topics, 📌 most interesting aging topics to write about, ❓ aging research topics and questions.

  • The Concept of Aging Process The science dealing with the process of aging is termed ‘gerontology’ and this science tries to elucidate the factors and details of the process of aging.
  • The Aging Population Impacts on labour Impacts on healthcare Impacts on government spending The increase in the proportion of the people who are old leads to a decrease of the number of people who are within the working […]
  • Anti-Aging Products: Pros and Cons While the subject on anti-aging products is politicized over time, the manufacturers of the products defend themselves by saying that the customers are informed, they understand the risks associated with anti-aging products, and they choose […]
  • Aging as a Social Problem The social challenges of the old people are further worsened by the economic constrains, and labeling. Ageism is another social challenge and it refers to a situation where people look down upon the elderly people […]
  • Generation Gap: Childhood, Adulthood, Old Age At the same period, the younger generation says about the impact of the modern tendencies, changes of the way of life that give an opportunity to claim that the younger generation is more advanced.
  • Physical Exercise Program Importance in Old Age As such, regular physical and mental exercise is integral in helping the aged people to boost their strength, confidence and intrinsic health.
  • Elderly and Aging in American and Viking Societies In the end, the conclusions are drawn to understand the significance of elderly and attitudes towards the aging process in each society.
  • Aging Theories and Interview With the Elderly For a better understanding of both the process of aging and the theories we have studied in class, I have conducted an interview with an elderly person, and the results of it are presented in […]
  • Mental Health and Wellness in Aging Population This research proposal will examine the aspects of wellness with regards to the dimensions of mental health and among the aged.
  • Old Age Dependency Overview and Analysis This paper seeks to describe how the use of this metric can become an evidence-based approach for formulating new policies and frameworks to maximize the economic output of the elderly, engage them in productive activities, […]
  • Physical Appearance in Old Age and Social Degradation People consider old age as a social problem and, in fact, many people do not want to age. There is the need to expand research and training to eliminate the problem of ageism within the […]
  • Adulthood and Aging – Widower’s and Widow’s Syndrome According to the information on the site, studies have been carried out to compare the death rate for a group of widows/widowers to that of a control group.
  • The Myth of Mental and Physical Deterioration in Old Age The findings of these studies suggest that mental deterioration is not inevitable, as the participants were found to preserve high cognitive function and mental health.
  • The Ideas for Skin Care and Anti-Aging Products In this essay, we are going to use the ideas for skin care and anti-aging products in a bid to explore further the topic of ideation and to put it into practice.
  • Reflection Essay: Aging and Sugar I want to go on trips around the world with my family and engage in new challenges. In order to do that, now I should care about my health and economic welfare.
  • The Aging Population’s Retirement Security There is a continuous increase in the aging population number, without any retirement security hence a need for a collective effort to ensure stability and dignity for the elderly population in the future.
  • Global Issues: Addressing an Aging Population An important issue that is currently facing the world community is aging due to the increasing number of older people. Migration leaves the countries in which people are moving with a significant number of older […]
  • Vital Signs: A Window Into Aging and Health However, it is always the nurse’s duty to assess vital signs and set up the proper follow-up in the event that irregularities are discovered.
  • Aging in the United States and Japan Further, the physical health of aging in Japan is highly regarded, whereas, in the US, the aging is most are separated and left indoors. The US and Japan encourage the aging to spend most of […]
  • Aging, Chronic Conditions, and End of Life Essentially, the quality of life of the dying person and those who are important to them is attempted to be improved by effective end-of-life care.
  • Free Radical Theory Among Aging Theories According to the theory of mutation accumulation, genes useful in early human life are maintained by natural selection, in contrast to genes useful in old age.
  • The Policies and Deficits Affecting Aging in the United States This paper discusses the policies and deficits affecting aging in the United States and the role of government in ensuring that they are protected.
  • Visible and Invisible Aging Article by Clarke & Griffin The authors initially identified two possible approaches to the problem from different angles: the popularity of youth in society and the lack of respect for older people, and they outlined the inverse proportion of the […]
  • Scientific Theories on Phenomenon of Old Age The social component of this issue becomes no less important, and the author, moving from social integration and issues of suicide among the elderly, begins to reveal in more detail the section on the dynamism […]
  • Financial Stability in Old Age The financial and economic factors are among those aspects that put the aging population at risk of physical and mental complications and expose them to health inequalities.
  • Aging: Subcategories, Longevity, and Human Services The middle-old subgroup often experiences chronic pain, deals with stressors correlating with the deaths of friends and spouses, and encounters balance problems.
  • Aging Process in Relation to Abuse One category of the characteristics of the aging process are specific physiological changes, such as various neurological disorders, impaired cognition, memory loss, the loss of learning ability, and a decline in special senses.
  • Small-Group Communication: Innovation in Aging A small group is essentially an assemblage of two or more individuals that communicate while engaging in certain events or an interconnected aim and can exercise correlation amongst each other. Every team member can acquire […]
  • Aging Changes and Dealing With Them For example, immediate tasks such as the state of a cooked meal usually remain in the short-term memory and then vanish; deliberately learned math course sticks in the memory for a while, being an example […]
  • Taste: Entry and Profits in an Aging Economy Now, I understand that taste is a more complicated category in the economy that features the concepts of utility and consumer inertia.
  • Personality, Cognition, and Physical State of Old Age This work is aimed at revealing my personal views on the aspects of personality, cognition, and physical state of old age and assessing the theoretical background that describes the relevant states and their prerequisites.
  • Health Care Within Aging White Veterans With Dementia Since this condition is heavily linked with damage to the brain, these people should be addressed in a friendly manner to avoid misunderstanding.
  • Applying Neural Stem Cells to Counteract Brain Aging Pluripotent stem cells, or PSCs, are the best candidates for in vitro generation and cultivation of neural stem cells. Neural stem cells: Origin, heterogeneity and regulation in the adult mammalian brain.
  • Effects of Aging on the Integumentary and Musculoskeletal Systems The second part is a summary of the information available on the changes that occur in the integumentary system with age.
  • Successful Aging and Its Key Constituents Therefore, aging is a stage of life, which can be as happy and prosperous as other phases of life. Thus, this research is pretty informative and contributes to people’s understanding of the peculiarities of successful […]
  • Aging Population and Its Effect on the US Healthcare However, on the flip side, growth in the number of older adults in relation to the young population would also signify a reduction in the labor force and, consequently, a decline in national income.
  • Researching of Theories of Aging Social isolation among the elderly in the US can be reduced through the application of the activity theory. This theory suggests that individuals enjoy old age by finding new activities to do to substitute the […]
  • Colorado Springs: Aging Services Network The Colorado Department of Human Services is the highest department over CDAAS and provides the same services. The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program focuses on a broader range of services, including recreational, and economic counseling, to […]
  • Aging Services Network Map Evaluation Summit View Assisted Living is a home care service located in the Garwyn Oaks neighborhood of Baltimore. The area has a good selection of assisted living facilities for senior citizens who want to get more […]
  • Aging: Concepts and Controversies An analysis of the college admission process reveals one challenge facing counselors: that there is a necessity of providing the certain measures to avoid the discrimination of the disabled.
  • Perceptions of Aging Adults This paper sets out to explore the difference between grandparents and baby boomers; whether baby boomers are younger, energetic, or are similar; the differences in our perceptions of aging today versus 30 years ago, the […]
  • Effects of Age and Aging on the Immune Response to Diseases Such as COVID-19 The purpose of this paper is to address the effects of age and aging on the immune response to diseases such as COVID-19.
  • Aging Population Study by Christensen Kaare et al. The descriptive approach in the Aging Population: The Challenges Ahead, the article written by Christensen Kaare et al, systematically and accurately elaborates on life expectancy trends in developed nations.
  • Aging and Beauty Standards: Overcoming Social Prejudice The ethical issue is that in an attempt to change one’s body and make it similar to those that are presented in the media and by stars, people lose their identities and opinions.
  • Healthy Aging in the United Arab Emirates Report: This part highlights the current plan for aged care in the UAE, presupposing increasing investment in the sphere and attraction of private companies, communities’ preferences for aged care, resources provided by the UAE to […]
  • Caring for the Elderly and Biological Process of Aging Robnett and Chop believe strongly that ‘a wider knowledge of the mechanisms that tend to affect the aging process can play a significant role towards identifying new interventions that have the potential to alter the […]
  • Benefits of Exercises in the Aging Population Balance issues and falls are very frequent in the elderly, and they significantly contribute to the increased rates of institutionalization. This makes Tai Chi an important intervention in enhancing balance and reducing the risk of […]
  • Aging as Social Problem in North American Society In the North American society, individuals attaining the age of sixty-five are expected to retire to pave way for the new generation to manage the economy. In other words, the project would have a number […]
  • Person’s Aging Process and Media Impact As a result, the old are naturally the leaders of the society and are even expected to make the most consequential decisions that affect the entire society.
  • Myth: The Aging Population Is to Blame for Uncontrollable The issue of aging of the population is very critical, especially because it becomes worrisome when the health expenses increase and policymakers left with a dilemma on what to focus on in addressing the situation.
  • Aging and Oral Health Implications in Australia Consequently, parallel to the observation of AHMAC Steering Committee for National Planning for Oral Health, that those preserved teeth are predisposed to developing diseases of the mouth, and because of various influences of population aging, […]
  • Aging Body and Sensory Changes and Adaptation From a critical perspective, it is evident that Joseph is proud of his life and the fact that he has left behind a legacy.
  • The Aspect of Aging Ageism The old people, on the other hand, are so susceptible to ageism because old age is the last stage of life and that makes the elderly vulnerable to death.
  • The Science Behind Bacterial Aging A bacterium is one of the organisms that undergo asymmetric division of cells hence does not undergo aging. In this bacterium, it is evident that the DNA process stopped because the stalk cell turned out […]
  • Aging Theory and Medication Adherence for Geriatric Patients The following will be the goals and objectives of the Practicum Experience in this course. Define the phrase ‘theory of aging’ Explain how the aging process can be altered.
  • Aging Changes Explained Effects of aging on the nervous system lead to a reduction in the velocity of signal transmission due to varied effects on the nerve cells or on the neurotransmitter secretion.
  • Aging Population in the Western United States The older population in the western US is disproportionately compromised because the climate has a great impact on the health of older people, yet these older people’s adaptability is compromised.
  • Impact of Aging on the Human Body The free radical theory has it that the radicals produced by body cells can also destroy them, and as a result, the aging of cells occurs.
  • Human Growth Hormone: Finding a Remedy Against Aging The methods he used in this research and conclusions were documented in the New England journal of medicine on the 5th of July 1990.
  • Aging: The Terms This authority is attributed to the authoritative role of the father and the grandfather in the presidency of the emotional and economical demands of their generation group.
  • Experience of Aging in Indiana: Interviews Study The questions with the President of CICOA were more structures and had a formal nature, including questions such as the state of health service for the elderly, challenges in providing services, the plans for overcoming […]
  • Aging Issues in Canada In denial, people deny the fact that they are in the situation they are in and mostly they say, “This cannot be happening, not to me”.
  • The Impact of Culture on Aging: Psychological and Sociological Analysis Analyzing the impact of American culture on the process of aging, disease management and pain control, we should first identify the main features of American mentality.
  • Neurogenetics Effects on Cognition in Aging Brains According to Wong et al, Alzheimer’s disease is usually associated with a mutation in three genes: the amyloid precursor protein gene and two presenilin genes.
  • The Causes and Effects of Social Cognition and Aging The brain, as the most complex organ in a human’s body, is especially susceptible to drastic changes from a plethora of factors.
  • Changes in the Aging Brain: Overview The changes the brain undergoes while aging weakens its functions and can result in the development of cognitive disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease. According to Vandenbroucke, these deviations indicate the importance of the choroid plexus […]
  • The Link Between Cognition and Aging Brain The problems of changes in the cognitive functions of the brain over time are one of the leading causes of depression, delirium, and dementia in older adults.
  • Senior Centers and Places of Worship as Primary Active Aging Settings There is a variety of places that can accommodate the elderly or help to fulfill their needs for community interactions, and among these places are community settings and places of worship.
  • Interviews About the Realities of Aging However, inasmuch as he does not want to get to the point of needing specialized care, which is his greatest fear, he is aware of the reality and possibility of that time coming at some […]
  • The Problem of Aging, and the Needs of Aging Employees The aim of this research is to investigate the significance of workplace design changes and altering concepts of project management careers as a result of aging.
  • Old Age Phobia: Problems and Solutions Most of the countries of the world share the same view regarding the issue of the fear of aging. Thus, the perception of age is never well-received by the community and there is such a […]
  • Demand for Health Care in the USA: Old Age The question therefore arises is that what determines the demand for health in the US. Therefore, he concludes that age is not a determining factor in the increase of health care expenses.
  • The Great Down-Aging Syndrome: Why 40 Is the New 20 It has also been observed that the middle-aged people are fervent consumers of those products that are mainly used by the young. Not all middle-aged consumers are attracted to products that are meant for the […]
  • Perspectives on Aging in the US The analysis of US trends influencing the growth of the population is to be performed through national, economical and regional trends development.
  • Development Psychology: Aging Attitudes in Mass Media Considering the problem of attitudes towards aging in mass media, one can observe that the elderly population is having been viewed in a different manner if compared to the people of young age.
  • Psychology of Aging Analysis The regulation of social life can be a promising quality of life in later adulthood. Lifestyle factors have a tremendous effect on the quality of life and well-being in later years.
  • Maccianti on Fiduciary Responsibility of an Aging Owner The framework used in the critique is to evaluate the options available regarding Michael and to attempt to trace the cause of the present problem for the purpose of possibly preventing a similar situation in […]
  • Healthy Musculoskeletal System and Aging Once we reach the age of 30, our bones stop growing and making new cells, and we are left to live the rest of our lives with the current condition of our bones.
  • Adult Development and Aging But nowadays, the issue of adulthood is gradually becoming one of the most important because the borders between adolescence and adulthood are not fixed which leads to the mixture of generations, and to the process […]
  • Aging and Death Relations The growth of damages in the organ elements that are required for the creation of new cells of the body leads to death.
  • Aging Services in Modern Society This project there is ensuring that the staffs are committed to caring for elderly people. There is a team that is responsible for research in this project.
  • Health and Wellness of Aging: Abuse and Illness In the case of abuse, the situation deteriorates, and the senior individual cannot recuperate quickly, which affects the way they function.
  • Health & Wellness of Aging. Gerontological Society of America The Gerontological Society of America is an organization, which aims to research and ensure the health and wellness of aging among American older adults.
  • Online Dating for Aging Adults Considering the benefactors of the relationships that aging people develop through dating sites and applications also helps to determine the actual value of the tools in question.
  • Aging Services Access Barriers and Counterstrategies However, by improving the reciprocity between a patient and a nurse with the help of different types of media, one can address the issues temporarily, at the same time working on long-term goals such as […]
  • Aging in Rural Places: Retirement and Leisure Therefore, strategies for assisting older adults to transfer to a new stage of their development and retain the extent of their activity are important goals. Moreover, it is critical to ensure that the healthcare needs […]
  • Aging Population of the World as a Healthcare Issue The area of healthcare is the domain that has been affected by the rise in the number of aging people to the greatest extent.
  • Gerontology: The Aging and Disability Programs The practitioner is in charge of taking care of older adults, and the administrator is involved in greeting and guiding the clients.
  • Normal Aging of Brain Structures and Cognition Evidence of brain changes can be seen as early as the middle age in that there is a decrease in the number of neurotransmitter binding sites, as well as a decrease in the level of […]
  • Care Coordination for Aging Population in the Clinical Setting However, the described solution to the health problems of aging patients may entail difficulties in coordinating the work of the health experts involved in a team.
  • Aging and Barriers to Healthcare in Rural Areas For this purpose, the integration of innovative technology and the reconsideration of the current infrastructure will have to be seen as possible solutions.
  • Strategies to Slow the Brain Aging Aging may result in severe effects on the brain and lead to cumulative damage and the impairment of cognitive functions. However, it is possible to prevent and slow the effects of brain aging.
  • Primary Prevention for the Aging Population Among the examples of primary prevention, the best strategies for caring for the aging population include vaccination, health education, and the promotion of a healthy lifestyle.
  • Aging Word and Meaning Behind Its Use While this is a natural process, this paper explains why people use the word “aging” in a derogatory manner. The use of the word in a respectful manner will empower more senior citizens to pursue […]
  • The Concept of Successful Aging Medical specialists and theorists of psychology create a variety of concepts and definitions that in their opinion most fully reflect the idea of successful aging.
  • Aging and Policy Issues in Rural Places As someone who has quite extensive experience of working with older adults and elderly patients in the oncology, medical-surgical nursing, and telemetry units, I have to confirm that meeting the needs of patients in a […]
  • Successful and Unsuccessful Aging: My Grandfather’ Story In this paper, special attention will be paid to the story of my grandfather and his style of life that turns out to be a strong example for me.
  • Women’s Aging Fears in Personal Fashion Blogs I would like to stress that it should be age-appropriate and modern at the same time. Moreover, I learned that there is a need for the development and implementation of relevant programs aimed to improve […]
  • Cataract Development and Aging Factor The problem of cataract blindness is essential to discuss because the occurrence of the condition in aging adults increases at an extremely high rate.
  • Aging Population Impact on the Labor Market These employees are also special in the fact that they have the capacity to stay with one firm for a very long time.
  • Aging Ethical Issues and Cultural Differences In other words, the biggest misconception that seems to have been accepted in society is the fact that the embryo is the standard to the right to life.
  • Canada’s Aging and Demographic Dynamics That is, the issue of ‘Canada’s aging’ is closely interconnected with other qualitative aspects of contemporary Canadian living, concerned with the government’s continual endorsement of the policy of multiculturalism and affected by the overall socio-economic […]
  • Getting Old: Healthy or Unhealthy Aging It is wise to choose a healthy lifestyle to enjoy the goodness that life has to offer. One is able to concentrate on their career and be able to plan for retirement.
  • How Can We Delay the Aging Process in Skin? Hsu, Li, and Fuchs note that the intrinsic and extrinsic biological factors such as the changes in the stratum corneum structure and corneum along with the occurrence of lipids justify the use chemical peels as […]
  • Aging and Its Cultural and Ethnic Factors The main idea that I am going to promote throughout the paper’s entirety is that the aging-related issues cannot be referred to as such that represent the value of a ‘thing in itself’ in the […]
  • Suadi vs. Australian Aging and Occupational Therapy Therefore, the objective of the given paper is to investigate the current system of occupational therapy operations in Saudi Arabia and identify the gaps to fill. The focus of the study is occupational therapy for […]
  • Dementia, Aging, Gerontology: Theories and Care Proponents of the theory, Elaine Cumming and William Henry take the psychosocial perspective in explaining the unhealthy collective relationships the aging person’s experience in the latest phases of their lives.
  • Aging Population Issues in American Prison System A case of an increase in the number of elderly people in prison was reported in 2000 when the number of elderly prisoners was only 3% of total America’s prison population, but in 10 years […]
  • Physical Changes and Aging in Psychology It is important to understand various provisions of physical changes in the context of human development. It is crucial to understand various provisions of growth and physical development with respect to aging.
  • Holistic Approach to Successful Aging Based on the above statistics, it is apparent that the USA will experience an absolute aging society in the future. One of the great accomplishments of healthcare in the 21st century is an improvement in […]
  • Aging and Parkinson’s Disease Parkinson’s disease refers to a condition, where a portion of the brain is damaged progressively over a period of many years.
  • Geriatrics: Aging Effects on Individuals and Society Individuals at the age of 60 and above are referred to as the elderly. The term chronological age refers “to the age of a human being from the day of his or her birth”.
  • Canadian Healthcare Spending on Aging Population The increase in the aging population corresponds with the increase in life expectancy in the country. In this paper, the impact of the aging population on the healthcare expenditure in Canada will be discussed.
  • The Exercise and Diet’ Implications on Aging Studies have also shown that regular exercise and healthy eating habits among the aging population helps to improve the rate of glucose metabolism in the body.
  • Aging Offenders in Prison The increased number of elderly inmates is partly due to the introduction of longer sentences in the 1970s and 1980s as US took a tough approach to crime.
  • Impact of Aging Population on the US Economy Due to the advanced age of the patients in this case and the complexity of the care they require, the available caregivers will be forced to compromise the health of their patients in an attempt […]
  • Sociological Theories and the Process of Aging Functionalists agree with proponents of conflict theory that the society experiences some breakdowns and that mistreatment of the poor in the society is a reality.
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IvyPanda. (2024, February 21). 178 Interesting Topics in Aging. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/aging-essay-topics/

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1. IvyPanda . "178 Interesting Topics in Aging." February 21, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/aging-essay-topics/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "178 Interesting Topics in Aging." February 21, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/aging-essay-topics/.

Dawn C. Carr MGS, Ph.D.

Why Young People Should Care About Aging

Young people need to have more realistic expectations about their longevity..

Posted September 16, 2016

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As a graduate student in the early 2000s and in my early 20s, when people asked me what I was in school to study, it was a rare day when responses to the word gerontology were something other than, “What’s that?” And often once people learned what it meant, I received a follow up question, usually posed with a scowl of incredulity: “What got you interested in that?”

Since that time, aging has moved out of the shadows and taken center stage as a topic of critical focus in mainstream media outlets, even in the New York Times and The Atlantic , on a near daily basis. New online publications have been introduced specifically to highlight popular issues related to aging, and media outlets targeting baby boomers in particular have gained significant attention , like www.nextavenue.org . Even the Wall Street Journal and Forbes have jumped on the bandwagon.

Despite this growing attention, young adults still view aging issues as largely irrelevant in their lives. And this is a serious problem.

I teach undergraduate students who are in their late teens and early 20s. When I ask students about their life plans, like what they think they will be doing when they are “old” (you know, like 50!), they say they want to be retired, relaxing on the beach, spending their days hanging out with grandchildren, and enjoying life. But when I break the news that that likely means that they will be working for maybe 25 or 30 years, and then perhaps retired for another 40, they realize they might need to rethink things. The chances that young people today will live to be centenarians is much higher than any previous generation, particularly those young people who go on to obtain college degrees. Extended human longevity is highly stratified, but all young people today should be planning for their future with the idea that they are likely to live well into their 90s.

But they aren’t planning.

For most of human history, later life was usually a fairly brief period, if we were lucky enough to make it there in the first place. The idea of an extended period of retirement is brand new, so it makes sense that we haven’t really figured out what we should expect. People who are retired today left work in their 60s, making room for younger people who needed jobs. And a huge number have gone on to spend three full decades in retirement, placing strain on public and private pension programs. Many without pensions have significantly outlived their resources and rely entirely on Social Security to survive, even those who saved what they thought would be enough money to last. One in ten older adults make less than $10,000, and half live in households that bring in a gross income of less than $2,500 per month.

Young people today are likely to live even longer lives than those who are currently at ages we consider “old.” And there’s an important reason they should be thinking about that possibility now beyond just finances alone. Young adults can revise the script of their life paths unfolding in light of the extra time they will have in later life. Older people today didn’t think they were going to live as long as they have. Young people today know better, and should do something about it.

If we planned for a life that was 7 decades long, it might make sense to hurry through school, get a get a job that paid well enough to save for 10 to 15 years of retirement. But, what if you knew you had at least 90 years? Or maybe a decade beyond that? What if most of those years could be (relatively) healthy ones? How might you rescript your life? Frankly, we should all be considering this, even those of us in our middle age years. But we’re not. And it is robbing us of the ability to ensure older adults are able to have meaningful and valuable roles in society.

A student in my class told me that she doesn’t know any “old people” who are aren’t sick, so why should she think about old age as anything other than something to dread – she has no examples. But perhaps that is a useful example. If we accept that our lives are likely to span for nine or ten decades (or perhaps longer!), we should be doing things throughout our lives to maximize the quality of all of those decades of life. To be clear, not everyone has the privilege of control over their lifestyle. Lacking adequate income, having a physically demanding job, lacking access to high quality food and childcare, and living in places that are not safe does not set people up for doing much more than surviving in later life. And addressing these issues is a critical part of enhancing opportunities for older adults. The 2008 recession contributed to these issues in a significant way.

But, what if all teenagers and young adults had a more accurate perception of their own longevity potential, and realized that most have some control over shaping those years (and by the way, genetics plays a very small role in shaping their future longevity)? They may make different choices about how to spend their time, particularly their early years. Taking the time to get an education might seem more worth it if they consider the investment in a work life that may extend for 50 years. Doing things they do have control over to make sure that they preserve their physical health, and cultivating meaningful relationships with friends and family, and taking the time to intentionally consider the kind of old person they hope to become one day can dramatically alter the paths their lives take.

We cannot minimize the very real challenges that come with aging. Even those who make the best decisions have bodies that break down, and even major scientific advances aren’t likely to eradicate decline in physical and mental function as we get older. But our later years increasingly have the potential to be the best years of our lives – a time when we’ve accumulated immense wisdom and experiences, and for many, freedom from traditional career and family obligations to engage in meaningful and productive ways. Our next US President will be 70 (or nearly 70) upon entering office. What our future elders can do to make the world a better place depends entirely on how well they prepare for their elder-hood today.

Dawn C. Carr MGS, Ph.D.

Dawn C. Carr, Ph.D., an assistant professor at Florida State University, is a social gerontologist whose research focuses on factors that facilitate healthy and active aging.

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Aging in Place: Growing Older at Home

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Planning ahead for aging in place

Support for aging at home, making your home safe and accessible, resources for aging in place, how much will it cost to age in place, when it's time to leave home.

Many people want the same things as they get older: to stay in their own homes, to maintain independence for as long as possible, and to turn to family and friends for help when needed. Staying in your own home as you get older is called “aging in place.” But many older adults and their families have concerns about safety, getting around, or other daily activities. Living at home as you age requires careful consideration and planning. This article offers suggestions to help you find the help you need to continue to live independently.

Older woman and her caregiver giving her a meal

The first step is to think about the kinds of help you need now and might want in the future. You can learn about home-based care and other services in your community and find out what they cost. Planning ahead also gives you time to set up your home to meet your needs as you age.

Another step is to consider any illnesses, such as diabetes or heart disease , that you or your spouse might have. Find out about how the illness could make it hard for someone to get around or take care of themselves in the future. Your health care provider can help answer your questions.

Talk with your family, friends, and other caregivers about what support is needed for you to stay in your home. Be realistic and plan to revisit the decision as your needs change over time.

Home-based care includes health, personal, and other support services to help you stay at home and live as independently as possible. In-home services may be short-term — for someone who is recovering from an operation, for example — or long-term, for people who need ongoing help.

In many cases, home-based support is provided at home by informal caregivers, such as family members, friends, and neighbors. It can also be supplemented by formal caregivers and community services.

Help you can receive at home includes:

  • Personal care: Help with everyday activities, also called “activities of daily living,” including bathing, dressing, grooming, using the toilet, eating, and moving around — for example, getting out of bed and into a chair
  • Household chores: Housecleaning, yard work, grocery shopping, laundry, and similar chores around the house
  • Meals: Shopping for food and preparing nutritious meals
  • Money management: Tasks such as paying bills and filling out health insurance forms
  • Health care: Help with many aspects of health care, including giving medications, caring for wounds, helping with medical equipment, and providing physical therapy
  • Transportation: Assistance getting around, such as rides to the doctor’s office or grocery store
  • Safety: Home safety features and help in case of a fall or other emergency

Find detailed information about in-home support services , including suggestions for arranging them, information about costs, and additional resources.

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The Caregiver’s Handbook

Explore this guide to getting started with caregiving, finding support, and taking care of yourself.

Home Safety Tips for Older Adults infographic, click to open infographic webpage

There are a variety of ways to make your surroundings safer and easier to manage so they meet your needs as you age. Go through your home room by room to identify potential problems and safety issues. First, correct any immediate dangers, such as loose stair railings and poor lighting, and then work on other ways to ensure you will be as safe as possible at home.

See the Worksheet: Home Safety Checklist (PDF, 251K) for suggestions to help you identify and remove hazards around the house. Keep in mind that it may not be necessary to make all of the suggested changes. It is important, however, to reevaluate home safety every so often as your needs change.

Are you worried that making changes might be expensive? You may be able to get help paying for repairs and safety updates to your home. Check with your state housing finance agency, social services department, community development groups, or the federal government for financial aid programs and discounts. You can also visit the Eldercare Locator or call 800-677-1116 for help finding resources.

If staying in your home is important to you, you may have concerns about getting around, being safe, and staying connected. Some of these activities become more challenging as you age. The resources below can help you find solutions.

Reach out to people you know. Family, friends, and neighbors are the biggest source of help for many older people. They may be able to drive you to doctor’s appointments, help with errands and chores, or just keep you company. Talk with those close to you about the best way to get what you need. If you are physically able, think about trading services with a friend or neighbor. For example, one could do the grocery shopping, and the other could cook dinner.

Learn about community resources. Your local Area Agency on Aging , local and state offices on aging or social services, or your tribal organization may have lists of services. These organizations will be familiar with resources available in your community and may have tips for accessing them. Health care providers and social workers may also have suggestions. If you belong to a religious community, find out whether it offers services for older adults or ask for guidance from your pastor, rabbi, or other religious leader.

Get help during the day. Support is available if your regular caregiver isn’t available during the day (for example, because they go to work). Some organizations have volunteers who regularly pay short visits to older adults. The volunteer can provide support, assistance, and companionship. Or you might consider an adult day care program , which can offer social activities, exercise, meals, and personal care during the day. Additionally, respite services provide short-term care for an older adult at home when a regular caregiver isn’t available.

Be prepared for a medical emergency. If you have a serious allergy or medical need, talk with your doctor about whether you should get a medical alert ID bracelet or necklace. You might also consider an emergency medical alert system, which responds to medical and other emergencies via an electronic monitor that a person wears. The monitor alerts emergency personnel when a person becomes lost, falls, or needs urgent medical assistance.

Talk to a geriatric care manager. These specially trained professionals can help find resources to make your daily life easier. They will work with you to form a care plan and find services you need. Geriatric care managers can be especially helpful when family members live far apart. Your doctor or other health care provider may be able to recommend a geriatric care manager, or you can contact the Aging Life Care Association for a list of these professionals in your area.

Look into government resources. Federal, state, and local governments offer many resources for older adults and their families and caregivers. A good place to start is the Eldercare Locator, which connects older Americans and their caregivers with trustworthy local support resources. Visit the Eldercare Locator or call 800-677-1116.

An important part of planning is thinking about how you are going to pay for the help you need. Home-based services can be expensive, but they may cost less than moving into a residential facility , such as assisted living or a nursing home.

How people pay for care depends on their financial situation, their eligibility for assistance programs, and the kinds of services they use. People often rely on a variety of payment sources, including:

  • Personal funds , including savings, a pension or other retirement fund, income from investments, or proceeds from the sale of a home.
  • Federal and state government programs , such as Medicare , Medicaid , and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) . Visit Benefits.gov for more information about government programs for health care and financial assistance.
  • Private financing , including long-term care insurance, reverse mortgages, certain life insurance policies, annuities, and trusts.

Read more about the options for paying for long-term care .

Asian woman having a serious talk with her father

The decision about whether and when an older adult should move from their home is often difficult and emotional. Everyone will have their own reasons for wanting (or not wanting) to take such a step. One person may decide a move is right because they can’t or don’t want to manage the home any longer. For another person, the need for regular, hands-on care motivates a change.

Learn as much as you can about the housing options available as you grow older. Talk with your family about the pros and cons of each option before making a decision.

You may also be interested in

  • Learning about services for older adults living at home
  • Finding out the signs that an older adult needs help
  • Reading more about residential care facilities

Sign up for e-alerts about healthy aging

For more information on aging in place.

Eldercare Locator 800-677-1116 [email protected] https://eldercare.acl.gov

LongTermCare.gov 202-619-0724 [email protected] https://acl.gov/ltc

Medicaid 877-267-2323 866-226-1819 (TTY) [email protected] www.medicaid.gov

Medicare                                                                          800-633-4227 (1-800-MEDICARE) 877-486-2048 (TTY) www.medicare.gov

USAging 202-872-0888 [email protected] www.usaging.org

This content is provided by the NIH National Institute on Aging (NIA). NIA scientists and other experts review this content to ensure it is accurate and up to date.

Content reviewed: October 12, 2023

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An official website of the National Institutes of Health

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Caring for Elderly Relatives [Model Answer]

Posted by David S. Wills | Aug 14, 2023 | Model Essays | 0

Caring for Elderly Relatives [Model Answer]

Today, I want to show you an IELTS writing task 2 question and then explain how you can give a great answer to it. I will talk you through the whole process, from analysing the question to choosing the right language, and finally I will give my own sample band 9 answer.

Analysing the Question

Here is our question for today:

If old people are no longer physically, mentally or financially able to look after themselves, younger family members should be legally responsible for supporting them. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

First of all, I would like to point out the phrase “legally responsible.” This is very important. I have seen several students attempt to answer this question but somehow miss this expression. They wrote about the ethical responsibility of people to look after their elderly relatives instead of the legal imperative.

Considering that, we must think about what the question is really asking us. This is an agree or disagree question and we have to take a stance on the given statement. Let’s paraphrase it to make it easier:

Do you agree that people should be legally obligated to care for their elderly relatives if those people are not capable of looking after themselves?

You must then decide whether you agree or disagree with this (and to what extent).

Structuring your Answer

Once you have decided upon your position, you should begin planning your answer. There are various ways to do this. You can learn about structuring a task 2 essay here .

Every task 2 essay should feature an introduction and a conclusion . Your introduction should also feature an essay outline sentence. I recommend having two body paragraphs but three can also work.

My essay is going to have four paragraphs but the structure will still be a little unusual. Here is how I’m going to structure it:

IntroductionIntroduce the topic
Give my opinion (disagree)
Body paragraph #1State that helping the elderly should be an recommendation but not a requirement
Body paragraph #2Explain why it should not be a legal requirement – lack of obligation, particularly for victims of abusive parents
ConclusionSummarise my ideas

Why is this unusual? Well, most people would write two body paragraphs explaining their position but I felt that it was worth having a sort of concession paragraph here. Although you don’t need to provide balance , I felt that in this case it gave the essay some important nuance and allowed for intelligent development of ideas. Overall, that paragraph helped set up my third one, which was quite long and contained convincing ideas for why I disagreed with the notion in the question.

One more thing: You can learn how to start an agreement essay here .

The main topics here are age and law, so it would be good to have some vocabulary about these.

In my essay, I will use the following phrases:

Elder careThe situation or system of looking after elderly people
Legally obligatedRequired to do something by a law
Elderly relativesA better way of saying “old” in the context of family
Strive toMake a strong effort to do something
Moral obligationSomething that people should do according to cultural norms
Moral imperativeThe same as above. This means something you have to do according to the ethics of your culture
Return the favourDo something for someone who previously did something for you
Codified in lawMake a law
TravestySomething very unfair
Enshrine in lawMake something a legal requirement by passing it as a law
EnforcedMake something happen through force or law

Try to be careful when talking about old people as there are many terms you will find in dictionaries that are a little offensive or inappropriate. Also, many IELTS candidates struggle with grammar and vocabulary related to age. Here’s a guide to talking about old people:

helping the elderly essay

You can learn more in this article about age and this one about crime and punishment .

Sample Band 9 Essay

Different cultures and legal systems take different approaches to the concept of elder care. One view is that people should be legally obligated to care for their elderly relatives in the case that those old people are no longer capable of looking after themselves. This essay will argue against that notion.

First of all, it is important to acknowledge that in most cases people should certainly strive to look after their elderly relatives. This is a moral issue and younger people do have a moral obligation to offer emotional, practical, and financial support to their parents. However, to make this a legal requirement is problematic because it overlooks important complexities.

For one thing, no person ever asks to be born and therefore no person truly owes their parents anything simply for having brought them into this world and raised them. Whilst we can say that there is some moral imperative to return the favour, it is essentially a matter of opinion and should not be codified in law. Moreover, not all parents raised their children well and it would be a travesty, for example, to force a person to give financial support to an abusive parent. Whilst in an ideal world, people would raise their children with love and respect and then expect the same in return, this is just not how reality and functions and any attempt to enshrine this concept in law would be flawed at best. Ultimately, that choice should be for each individual and their family to make together. It is admirable that a person would grow up and treat their parents well, but it should not be something enforced by the law.

In conclusion, this is a situation that sounds simpler than it is. In fact, whilst people should in most cases look after their elderly relatives, it is a private matter and not something that should be dealt with by the law.

A Note on the Sample Essay

You might be wondering why I used repetition here:

This is a moral issue and younger people do have a moral obligation to offer…

It is true that we usually try to avoid repetition , but in this case I felt that it was useful as a means of emphasising a point. By saying “moral issue… moral obligation…” it makes it even clearer to the reader that looking after elderly people is important.

This is particularly effective because I then transition into highlighting my opposition to this being a legal requirement. In other words, it is very clearly a moral requirement but not a legal one.

About The Author

David S. Wills

David S. Wills

David S. Wills is the author of Scientologist! William S. Burroughs and the 'Weird Cult' and the founder/editor of Beatdom literary journal. He lives and works in rural Cambodia and loves to travel. He has worked as an IELTS tutor since 2010, has completed both TEFL and CELTA courses, and has a certificate from Cambridge for Teaching Writing. David has worked in many different countries, and for several years designed a writing course for the University of Worcester. In 2018, he wrote the popular IELTS handbook, Grammar for IELTS Writing and he has since written two other books about IELTS. His other IELTS website is called IELTS Teaching.

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  7. Essay on Caring For The Elderly

    500 Words Essay on Caring For The Elderly Understanding Elderly Care. When we talk about caring for the elderly, we are referring to the way we look after our older family members or any older person who might need help. As people grow older, they often need more assistance with daily tasks, like cooking, cleaning, and taking medicine.

  8. Caring for the Elderly Essays

    Old age is the period which requires more care in the life cycle of human beings. it is common in Britain for the old people to stay away from the family and living in a old age home along with nurses to look after 24/7. In some cases, government used to provide the necessary fund for their expenses.

  9. A Complete Essay on Caring for the Elderly

    Essay on caring for the Elderly (100 Words) It is a moral duty of us to take care of the elderly. Being a responsible person we should know how to take care of old people. Our parents or elders sacrifice their golden days with smiling faces in shaping our life. During their old days, they also want support, love, and care from us.

  10. Essay on Respecting Elders

    Benefits of Respecting Elders. Respecting elders has many benefits. First, it helps us learn from them. Their wisdom and experiences can guide us in our lives. Second, it helps us build good relationships with them. When we show respect, they feel valued and appreciated. This can lead to strong and healthy relationships.

  11. A Better Life for Older Adults

    According to Scult et al., "a healthy aging program is a feasible intervention for targeting older adults that have the potential to increase their morale and self-efficacy" (26). Self-efficacy, in this context, refers to the ability of older adults to influence the events in their life as well as facilitate an improvement in personal ...

  12. Essay on Caring For The Elderly

    In conclusion, caring for the elderly is a noble and important task that should not be taken lightly. By showing kindness and compassion towards the elderly, we can help them live their lives with dignity and respect. Short Essay on Caring For The Elderly in 200-500 Words

  13. What Can Be Done To Better Support Older Adults To Age Successfully In

    For example, the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) serves high-need older adults who live at home through a range of services including preventive care, meals, transportation to ...

  14. Caring for an Old Person: Roles of Care of Each Discipline Essay

    It includes a series of duties and responsibilities such as assisting with personal care, mobility assistance, basic food preparation, personal supervision, general healthcare, emotional support, health monitoring, and backup care services. Get a custom essay on Caring for an Old Person: Roles of Care of Each Discipline. 191 writers online.

  15. Essay on How to Help Old People

    250 Words Essay on How to Help Old People Understanding the Needs of the Elderly. The first step in helping the elderly is understanding their unique needs. Aging is a complex process that brings physical, cognitive, and emotional changes. These changes often demand increased attention and support.

  16. Helping your Elders Short Essay for Children & Students

    Helping elders is a basic manner that is being shown to the elder person. It shows sign of gratitude towards the concern and is a matter of honoring someone. Helping someone in any manner is concerned as a good deed especially the elder and older people because they live for many years and had gained lots of experience of life and when we talk ...

  17. 11 Ways to Help the Elderly to Make a Difference

    Whether you are looking for how to help the elderly at home or committed to helping the elderly in their homes, here are simple yet change bringing tips that will work. #1: Offer help even if it's small. #2: Spend quality time. #3: Elders love fun too. #4: Surprise with gifts.

  18. Supporting the Elderly Essay

    Supporting the Elderly Essay. As adults the transition into old age can be difficult for some people. Frustration, lack of responsibility and dependence can make the process of aging undesirable. Old age should be viewed as another phase of life, but not the end of life. In order to help elderly cope with aging it is important for them to have ...

  19. IELTS Essay: Taking Care of Elderly People

    1. The caretakers of elderly individuals are often overworked and feel they are neglecting their duties. 2. In my opinion, this hurts quality of care and the best solution is comprehensive, societal reform. Paraphrase the essay topic. Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions for IELTS here. 1.

  20. How can we better treat our elders?

    The best way to help is often just to listen. 14 minutes 13 seconds. 10:06. Grace Kim. How cohousing can make us happier (and live longer) 10 minutes 6 seconds. 12:37. Robert Waldinger. What makes a good life? Lessons from the longest study on happiness. 12 minutes 37 seconds. 09:21. Scott Williams.

  21. Caring for the Elderly Essay

    Caring for the Elderly Essay. In general, society considers the elderly as persons above the ages of sixty or sixty-five. This is usually the beginning of old age as a person becomes less active in political, social and economic affairs. Though there are elderly persons who are in good health and active members of their communities, majority ...

  22. Essay on Elderly

    The number of elderly persons in the United States is steadily rising. This brings into play the issue that the cost of the care for the elderly is also steadily elevating: as the cost of living grows, the cost of long- term care is also going to continue to increase. Seven out of ten people will receive long-term care in the United States.

  23. 178 Aging Topic Ideas to Write about & Essay Samples

    In this essay, we are going to use the ideas for skin care and anti-aging products in a bid to explore further the topic of ideation and to put it into practice. ... There is a variety of places that can accommodate the elderly or help to fulfill their needs for community interactions, and among these places are community settings and places of ...

  24. Healthy Aging Tips for the Older Adults in Your Life

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  25. Why Young People Should Care About Aging

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  26. Aging in Place: Growing Older at Home

    Many people want the same things as they get older: to stay in their own homes, to maintain independence for as long as possible, and to turn to family and friends for help when needed. Staying in your own home as you get older is called "aging in place.". But many older adults and their families have concerns about safety, getting around ...

  27. Caring for Elderly Relatives [Model Answer]

    Sample Band 9 Essay. Different cultures and legal systems take different approaches to the concept of elder care. One view is that people should be legally obligated to care for their elderly relatives in the case that those old people are no longer capable of looking after themselves. This essay will argue against that notion.