While it’s believed that time is precious, grandparents like to ‘waste’ it on their grandkids. Grandparents and elders make the world a little softer, a little kinder, and a little warmer for the younger generations. Our elders guide us and make us better human beings.
It is extremely sad that many children and grandchildren see their elders as a burden rather than a gift that is to be treasured. They go on to horribly abuse and neglect them; many go on to abandon them, leaving them at the stage when they need love and care the most.
15th June is celebrated as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day to spread information on the various forms of abuse elders face in today’s world. We at Wishes and Blessings firmly stand against all forms of elder abuse. We believe that our elders deserve love, care and dignity and celebrate the lives they have lived, and we hope you do too!
Here are just some of the ways you can show that you care. Let us know if you have any more fun and creative ways of showing our elders that they matter!
Conversations Build Bonds
Spend some time with your grandparents/ elders over a video call if you do not stay with them. This is much better than a regular phone call- seeing your face is sure to bring a smile to their faces! If you stay with your grandparents, designate an afternoon and just chat with them. You’re sure to be regaled with many stories!
Create a Photo-Album
Click pictures and create a treasure trove of memories. Let your creative juices flow and form a story. You can even make a scrapbook and gift it. This is sure to spread happiness and joy.
Lend a Helping Hand
Remember how you would be scared to visit the doctor without your parents? Our elders face similar problems and fears! The world is changing quickly, and it can be daunting to go out there. You can always help them by offering assistance. Go to their doctor’s appointment with them!
Family Game Night
Get the entire family together and engage in friendly competition. Play Ludo, Snakes and Ladders, or even Dumb Charades! You will never be able to predict the winner… this is guaranteed to be one of the best ways to build memories!
Technology- Change the Bane into a Boon
Most elders struggle with the various new forms of technology. It isn’t easy to deal with so much information being thrown at you! Teach them how to use Skype/Zoom/Facetime. You can even choose to show them how Instagram works. You never know, they could be the next Instagram King and Queen!
The Best Way to Show Love- Food!
Cook their favourite dish or bake something for them. Everyone loves to eat sweets. Bake with your grandparents if they enjoy being in the kitchen. If not, surprise them with their favourite meal!
Go Back In Time
Relive old memories through photo albums with them or share and discuss old memories with them. Ask them about their favourite holiday and then share yours. You never know, you might find out that you have very similar likes and dislikes.
Write to Show Love
Gift them a token of your love (any handmade gift). It can be a handwritten letter or a handmade photo frame. The postcard is the most traditional way to show some affection to your loved ones which can never go out of fashion.
Shared History
If your elders are comfortable sharing, ask them about the major political happenings they have experienced. Having a healthy discussion with your grandparents about current affairs or listening to their experiences is a new form of learning.
This article has been written by Monika Phore. Monika loves to read in her spare time, and her favourite author is Marks Manson. If you don’t catch her reading, you might see her gorging on street food or napping