5 Tips For Respecting Older People In Your Life
Our intolerance of old age is a modern evil that has gradually settled in the world. Older people went from being a beloved source of wisdom to being an age group many people do not know what to do with. When people in our society reach a certain age, many of them face rejection, dismissal and contempt.
The ideal today is centered around youth as the source of all well-being. Although this is false, many take it for granted and act accordingly. Physical strength is now, more or less, a fetish. An older person does not fit into this equation, and their vulnerability is not something society wants to deal with.
The most fragile people in our world are often pushed aside. This is the case among children, the elderly and the sick among others. Young adults – healthy, strong and full of potential – always expect someone else to take care of the vulnerable. Whether we are talking about their own children, or their parents, it seems that the healthy and young do not have time for these more vulnerable groups.
Well, that’s exactly why we want to dedicate this article to seniors, because you deserve respect. You deserve more than these five areas of respect, but we start here.
Do not try to change an older person
In general, trying to change someone shows a lack of respect. How do you know you’re right and they’re wrong? Only those who think they are better than others are trying to change people. Also, the term “better” or “worse” is extremely relative and very dangerous.
No matter who we are talking about, an older person has already played many roles in his life. They have come up with their own criteria for how they should be, regardless of whether there are “correct” criteria or not. They have developed their own habits, tastes and customs.
No one has the right to try to convince them that they should think or act differently. In fact, no matter how hard you try, you will probably not make them change their minds. By accepting them, it will go much better for both of you.
Do not argue with them
Maybe your father or grandfather is convinced of something that seems absurd to you. Their religious or political beliefs may be very different from yours. Older people, in good faith, will sometimes try to convince you that they are right.
Do not forget that an elderly person has a lot of luggage, but it is not necessarily negative. After all, if you think the way you do, it’s not by chance. It is because of your experience and the knowledge you have acquired. It is not a good idea to engage in fleeting quarrels to make them understand your point of view. Give them an affectionate and respectful ear: they deserve it.
Support them in their interests and hobbies
Many times, older people are shy or afraid of their own interests or hobbies. In today’s world, their words are not taken seriously unless they occupy positions of power. Many have important messages to tell us.
It can be reading, gardening or even sports. Whatever it is, it would be nice to show interest in it. And if you know how to do the hobby, hang on . In the fall of life, having a hobby can be a great help.
Accept their physical and cognitive limitations without criticism
They say it’s a test we should all take. Seal your ears with earplugs, apply Vaseline to your glasses, and tie two bricks to your legs. Then try to live like this for an hour. This will show us what it feels like to have a more advanced age. Perhaps we will also learn to be more tolerant of the limitations that older people may have.
If you are going with an older person, go at their pace and do not ask for more than they can provide. If they do not hear when you speak, try to speak louder and louder instead of yelling at them for not being attentive. Listen to health complaints without being condescending and treat them as you would be treated at their age.
Let their obsessions be
Some older people can be quite capricious and stubborn. They can even be evil or challenging. In fact, some even start behaving like children again. And in the middle of this second childhood, some difficult behaviors develop.
Remember that there is a reason why an older person behaves the way they do. They are going through very big changes and have to face the idea that the end is coming. Their stubbornness and whim is that they compensate for feeling vulnerable or scared. So do not give these behaviors more importance than they deserve.
Parents and grandparents are a source of wisdom, although they have some peculiarities. Listening to them and spending time with them can nourish your heart in a surprising way. Embracing their vulnerability makes you a better person and gives your life more meaning.
