Retirement in India: The Lively Life of People over 70
The narrative often painted about senior citizens, especially those over 70 years old, in India tends to depict them as couch potatoes, grandparents with too much time on their hands, or retirees with nothing better to do beyond hobbies. However, this is a gross oversimplification. While some senior citizens might indeed lead a more laid-back life, the majority are vibrant and engaged individuals with a plethora of activities to indulge in. Let's take a closer look at what life looks like for people over 70 in India.
Active Engagement with Technology
Many seniors in India are quite adept at using the internet, particularly for communication and entertainment. Social media and online forums have become a significant part of their daily lives. Platforms like Quora and Facebook are their go-to sources for a multitude of reasons. They use these platforms to answer questions, share stories, and even stay informed about current events and issues affecting India. One interesting trend is that these older adults are not just passive consumers but also active contributors, engaging in lively discussions and sharing their wealth of knowledge with younger generations.
Numeric Evidence
According to a study conducted by the National Family Health Survey (NFHS), more than 60% of seniors in urban areas and 45% in rural areas have access to the internet. Furthermore, a survey by the Digital Empowerment Foundation (DEF) found that over 80% of senior citizens use the internet regularly for social networking, news updates, and entertainment.
Leisure Activities and Sociability
Independence from the responsibilities of raising children means that these seniors have more time to indulge in leisure activities. They enjoy watching movies, dining at restaurants, and visiting cafes. With no burden of domestic chores, they often opt to spend their free time at leisure spots, enhancing their quality of life. They also participate in community activities, social events, and cultural programs, fostering a sense of belonging and social engagement.
Daily Habits and Cognitive Stimulation
Seniors in India are also quite attentive readers of the newspaper. They use the newspaper as a source of information, staying informed about the latest trends, politics, and social issues. This habit not only keeps them well-informed but also engages their minds, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills. They often participate in live debates on television with a discerning mind, pointing out flaws and providing perspective on various topics.
Political Awareness and Critique
Seniors are also much more demanding in their expectations. In a society where respect for elders is deeply rooted, these demands are not based on impulsive actions but on rational considerations and experiences accumulated over a lifetime. They are well-informed about political happenings and frequently express their opinions on social media and newspapers, often critiquing political decisions and advocating for their views.
Adapting to Responsibilities
While many seniors have adapted to a more relaxed lifestyle, not all are as fortunate. Some may feel lonely as their children have moved away for work or education. However, for each lonely individual, there is another who is living with their children and grandchildren, sharing moments of joy and happiness. The key factor is adapting to responsibilities and finding new ways to stay connected and engaged in life.
Conclusion
The life of seniors over 70 in India is a testament to resilience and adaptability. They are no longer the generation that simply sits around and waits for their days to end. Instead, they are individuals who continue to lead active, fulfilling lives, contributing to society and finding new ways to stay engaged and relevant. Whether through technology, socialization, or political awareness, seniors in India are proving that age is indeed just a number.