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By Lee Sun Nee 

When we were in primary school, we were taught to respect the elders. This is to show how much we value them. Elderly people have a lifetime worth of experiences and valuable advice that they can impart to us. They have seen and learned a lot from their past experiences. These elderly people have also contributed to our society when they were younger. 

Parents should teach their children how to respect the elderly. For instance, a younger person should greet an elderly person when they meet. Grandchildren should also remember to greet their grandparents and also speak to them politely by not yelling at them when they disagree over something. It is also wise to remember that there is a generation gap between the young and the elderly so there would also be differences in understanding and opinions. 

We should also help the elderly whenever they need help. When you see an old lady carrying a heavy bag, it’s good to help her with it as it would lighten her burden. We should also give up our seat to an elderly person when we are in a train as he or she might feel tired easily after standing for a long period of time. 

Seniors would have incredible stories to share with the young. They could also give ideas and suggestions to the young so the youths could avoid making similar mistakes. The elderly people would also have tips in enduring and conquering challenges that life would throw at us. 

Some elderly men have fought in a war to defend the country when they were young while some elderly ladies have worked hard and sacrificed their dreams just to take care of their family. As such, they should indeed get the respect and recognition for their contribution and shouldn’t be taken for granted. 

** The views expressed on this opinion are of the writer and not the publisher.