Why Older Adults Should Not Be Forced into Age Care

For starters, unless a person has become mentally incapable and you have power of attorney, you cannot "put" them into a care home against their will. While in some situations, pressure is applied to obtain consent, the choice to enter care should always be respected.

Like many others, I faced such a dilemma when I was in my sixties. My own mother was struggling to live independently, and day visits by carers were not sufficient. The only viable alternative was to move in with us, which would have been impractical given the unsuitability of our home and my highly demanding professional commitments.

I have witnessed similar situations firsthand, such as when my mother had to live with my grandmother for the last 18 months of her life. It was incredibly stressful and resulted in my mother feeling burdened. This experience underscored the importance not just of proper accommodation, but also of adequate training and support services for 24/7 care when needed.

My mother did not need to be coerced. Until the dementia was well advanced, she appeared content and was close to home, where I could regularly visit. Self-reliance and independence were values I had upheld throughout my life, rooted in my belief that 'I can do anything you do, only I can do it better.' This motto has guided my approach to life, even as I neared 92, and the thought of being put into an old age home was inconceivable to me.

Many older adults retain a strong sense of independence and self-sufficiency. They can think, work, budget, and enjoy walks and various events. They often thrive on doing what they want, when they want, and in their preferred manner. The notion that people over a certain age should be cared for is perplexing, especially given that many prominent leaders and figures are in their sixties and seventies, and some are even in their eighties and still active and productive.

It is important to recognize that many older adults can take care of themselves and often assist younger individuals. For instance, known world leaders and distinguished professionals, such as a prominent doctor in his eighties who remains employed, prove that age is not a barrier to meaningful contributions. Additionally, examples like Grandma Moses, who began her renowned career in art in her seventies, demonstrate that age should not limit one's pursuit of interests and talents.

The question of whether older adults should be forced into age care is insulting and paternalistic. It belittles their capabilities and denies them the dignity and autonomy they deserve. Instead, we should focus on providing the appropriate care and support that allows seniors to maintain their independence and lead fulfilling lives in the manner they choose.

To conclude, the autonomy of older adults should be respected. By recognizing and supporting their independence, we ensure that they remain active, engaged, and respected members of society, able to contribute their wisdom and talents well into their later years.