essay on appreciating and respecting elders
Answers
Ways to Honor Our Elders
Senior citizens have a lifetime of experience. They comprise a generation that has survived The Great Depression, World War II, Vietnam and The Great Recession. These sage Americans have a thing or two to teach us about enduring change and handling life’s adversity.
Even if a senior’s hearing or memory isn’t what it was in the past, our elders have great wisdom to impart. It’s one thing to read about Pearl Harbor, but it’s more engrossing to hear about it from someone with first-hand knowledge. Younger generations must learn the importance of respecting their elders and make time to listen and spend quality with them.
The senior population, aged 65 and older, has more than doubled since 2013, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The U.S. Census Bureau reports that, in 2011, seniors accounted for 13.3% of the total population, with 9.2 million of those estimated to be veterans of the armed forces. Older Americans have a huge impact on our society, both past and present. From the wisdom and experience of the “Greatest Generation” to the vitality and engagement of the retiring Baby Boomers, we need to remember and honor our older Americans.
Read below for a few ways to recognize and appreciate our elders:
1. Spend time with them (and listen intently).
Many seniors get lonely, whether they’re retired and no longer have their work social schedule, or they’re lost their spouse and some friends. Regardless, they still need a rich social circle for happiness as many can get isolated over time; which can lead to health decline. It’s important to take time to visit elderly loved ones to not only spend precious time with them and learn from them; but also give them purpose, as relationships are key to healthy aging. When in the presence of an elder, make sure to listen as the senior’s words come from a place with many decades of experience. The conversation can be beneficial to both of you.
2. Be polite.
Being polite to an elder is a demonstration of respect. Older Americans grew up during a time when manners and respect were part of everyday etiquette. If they are talking, listen to them. Don’t interrupt them or address them by their first name, unless given permission. Being respectful may not only brighten their day, but also yours, as you may learn a thing or two (or just feel good about brightening someone’s day!).
3. Ask for advice.
Sadly, ageism exists, even though elders are some of the most wise people in society. It’s a shame to think that an elder, with a lifetime of experience, would be overlooked for their advice. Seniors have a lot to contribute to society through their life experiences, so seeking counsel from an elder is time well spent. You will both appreciate the sentiment.
4. Eat together.
Eating together is one of the greatest social customs for mankind. While nourishing your bodies, you also get to catch up and have fun. Whether you venture to a favorite restaurant, pack a picnic, or visit your senior loved ones home, try to eat together on a regular basis.
5. Discuss family heritage, history and traditions.
There’s an undeniable strength in family stories. In fact, putting together an oral family history can not only bring family members together and strengthen the ties between generations, but they can also educate about family genetics, personalities, and more. Family history translates into stronger family bonds and life successes. In fact, recent studies have shown that children who have more knowledge of their family history also tend to show greater emotional resilience, facing stress and challenges more effectively as they have a stronger sense of where they come from and who they are.
A survey conducted by Harris Poll and commissioned by A Place for Mom revealed the following topics were what U.S. adults wanted to know about their family members, specifically their moms:
Career highlights (e.g., significant work achievements, favorite job)
Family history (e.g., genealogy, origins of the family)
Life advice (e.g., view on aging, words of wisdom to share with children and grandchildren)
Medical history (e.g. health issues common with family members, life-threatening disease diagnosis)
Personal history (e.g., childhood memories, dating history)
Almost like a puzzle, heritage is many pieces that form a masterpiece to comprise an individual and their journey. Taking the time to visit aging loved ones during the holidays to no to not only reconnect, but also gather pieces of their heritage puzzle, can provide important info to pass on for posterity. After all, information about families is lost in three generations if not written down