Statistics show that we are not keeping up with the problems of the aged
in Korea. There are now more suicides and abuse of the elderly, and
fewer programs for senior citizens, both in society and in the Church.
Although all parishes have a subcommittee on the pastoral council for
the young, few have one for the elders.
Today in our society, 11 percent of the
population is over 65; by 2050, it is estimated the figure will be 38.5
percent. In the past, the elderly were considered receivers of aid:
taken on trips and given parties several times a year, but this was
the extent of the concern. It is said that to determine how well a
country is doing in caring for its elderly is to look at the money being
spent on education for the young, which usually is a sign of what is
being
done for the aged. According to this standard, we are not doing well by
our elderly. The Catholic Times
editorial points out that if the government,
the churches, and private organizations do not begin to do something, we
will
have a serious problem in the future.
For things to change, the editorial says it will require new parish
priorities. And this change will come about, it suggests, when the
thinking of the clergy concerning the elderly begins to change. If the
aged are seen only as objects of concern, the efforts to help will be
limited. The elderly should be seen not only as deserving recipients of
aid, the editorial goes on to say, but as valued participants in the
pastoral work of the parish.
There are many older people who have a great deal of experience and
specialized know-how in many different fields. They are often in good
health and
are willing to help if asked. They should be given every opportunity to
volunteer their services, in parishes and in society.
Specialists in this field have stated that there are all kinds of
opportunities in society to generate jobs that will fit the talents of
our senior citizens. In this
way, not only society and the Church will benefit, but the elderly will
be helped as well. It is urgent that we begin to implement the
necessary programs
to accomplish these goals as soon as possible in the many parishes
throughout the country. Utilizing the talents of our elderly population
will serve the needs of both Church and society.
