There are things that are so much a part of our everyday lived lives that it is difficult to look at them as ‘issues’ of journalism, requiring another deeper look. For instance, old people around us, parents, grandparents, uncles and aunts. We claim to know how to live with them and deal with issues of old age. But the truth is that we don’t.

The text messages landing into our cell phones, offering geriatric care and services of nurses, physiotherapists and caregivers are a proof that many of us have to deal with issues of the elderly on a daily basis.

In today’s Special Report, we have tried to get into the nitty gritty of geriatric care. These are observations, experiences and advice that most people will identify with. There is the emotional and physical stress of the caregiver that is never acknowledged, by the caregivers themselves and those around them. Here are some sincere suggestions for the caregivers that need to be heard.

Read also: Old age matters

The professional people involved in care for the elderly also need to be heard as well as those who are dealing with these professionals. And there is a need to talk about the social isolation of old people among us and the social stigma attached with old age and sicknesses. There is a need to bring these issues to light not just to change societal attitudes but also to guide and comfort individuals who don’t know how to go about it.

Despite the strong cultural barriers against them, we have tried to venture into the old people’s homes and bring back refreshing thoughts. For people who have no one to look after, these are a great alternative and one that the society needs to invest in more aggressively.