Three Elderly People Speak Realistically

It’s often said that raising children is for the sake of having support in old age, but in reality, can relying on children truly prevent aging?

This is a question worth pondering because once children grow up, start their own families and lives, they have their own responsibilities and may find it challenging to take care of their elderly parents.

Therefore, the notion that raising children will prevent aging is not always accurate. So, in real life, who can be more dependable for the elderly, children or money? Three elderly individuals share their thoughts.

Grandpa Charles, 60 years old

Grandpa Charles lives alone despite having children. He chose to live by himself because even though his children have their own families now, they are often too busy to take care of him. He values his independence and doesn’t want to bother his children.

He mentioned that while his children are filial, they have many things to attend to, so they may not always have the capacity to look after him. He doesn’t blame them as reality is not as ideal as we imagine. He has some savings now, which can sustain him for a while. If he didn’t have this money, he would feel helpless at the thought of burdening his children.

Moreover, his children have their own financial pressures such as mortgages, car loans, and the expenses of raising children. If he can still take care of himself, he prefers not to trouble them with his old age.

Grandpa Leo, 58 years old

believes that preparing for retirement should start early. Relying solely on children for support when you are old and incapable can lead to great suffering if you have no savings of your own.

Without money, life becomes challenging. To enjoy retirement, having sufficient funds is essential. Children who are already busy with their own families might find it difficult to care for their elderly parents.

He initially tried living with his children for a while but realized that taking care of himself was the priority. Constantly depending on children can lead to conflicts and tensions.

He emphasized that burdening children with all responsibilities adds pressure and can strain relationships. It’s better to save money early on to ensure a comfortable retirement.

Auntie Lisa, 50 years old

Auntie Lisa bluntly stated that relying on children for support in old age is no longer reliable for this generation. With increasing life and financial pressures, children have more to worry about.

By not troubling her children, Auntie Lisa lightens their burden. She maintains good personal habits, focuses on health, exercises regularly, and believes that having a healthy body is already satisfying in later years.

She stressed that while money isn’t everything, having savings provides a sense of security. Elderly individuals should not shift all responsibilities to their children but learn to care for themselves, which is also a way to help their children.

After listening to Auntie Lisa’s words, I couldn’t agree more. In reality, very few people can truly rely on their children for old age care. Elderly individuals living alone or lonely are common in society.

Understanding this issue early on is crucial. Regardless of the circumstances, we should place hope in ourselves.

While we work hard for our children and families when we are young, it’s equally important to plan for our own well-being in old age. By securing our retirement, we reduce the burden on our children and ensure a comfortable life in later years.

Planning ahead and saving for the future is vital for the elderly. Let’s all learn to prepare for our lives.