‘Mujhe aur jeene ki Chahat na hoti, Agar tum na hotey’ …..this is a line of the song we would have all heard in the past. This article has no romantic connection but it’s all about the significance of friends, especially in one’s senior years. My mother, who is an octogenarian, and an avid walker eagerly awaits her daily evenings in the Tikona Park. Yes, her walk is very important for being one with nature, her exercise and her me time outdoors but the real oxygen comes from spending time with her bunch of friends there. All are in their senior years, retired, many having lost their partners, and all done with their children-related responsibilities.
The question is: Why are these friends so important? The answer is that their kids and grandkids neither have the time nor the interest in their conversations, while their friends are all ears. They share their enthusiasm and excitement. Here, they can speak their hearts out without the fear of being judged, being called boring, not tech-savvy and out of tune with today’s world.
Among their friends, they share age group relevant information gained, new mobile phone tech skills learnt as per their ability, health concerns and tips, latest fashions noticed (and disapproved), recipes tried, religious events and fun outings planned, and general chit chat. Sharing stories like how Connaught Place used to be 50 years ago. Nostalgia repeatedly takes over. All these moments are vital to their mood enhancement, feeling of self-worth, a sense of belonging and camaraderie. I shudder at the thought of what would happen to them if this companionship was taken away. The vacuum caused would be devastating.
Geriatric Depression is an actual global concern. It usually affects people 65 years and above. It can significantly impact their quality of life, relations and well-being. Regular social engagement plays a significant role in keeping it at bay. We must support and push our seniors towards interacting with people their age so that they are happy and be around to guide and bless the younger generations.
