Caring about the elderly is every day, not just today.
As the Double Ninth Festival approached, a wave of social media posts flooded Weibo, urging netizens to remember and show respect towards their parents and elders. The festival, also known as Chongyang Day or Older Persons' Day in some countries, was celebrated on October 9th this year. In line with the day's purpose of honoring the elderly, numerous posts expressed gratitude and appreciation for the hard work and sacrifices made by our aging population.
24 October 2023
Netizens shared heartfelt messages expressing their love and admiration for their parents and grandparents, acknowledging their unwavering support and influence on their lives. These messages ranged from simple "I love you" posts to detailed accounts of how these elders have shaped their lives. The common thread among them was a deep respect for the elderly and acknowledgement that they are an integral part of society, providing wisdom, guidance, and unconditional love.
However, not all comments were positive. Some netizens expressed frustration towards society's treatment of the elderly, citing neglect and lack of care as major issues. These remarks highlighted concerns about social support systems for the aging population and called for more assistance in areas where they face difficulties such as healthcare and daily living needs.
On a separate note, several posts focused on the physical health and well-being of the elderly. A video from Shandong University reminded netizens that low cholesterol may actually increase cancer risk. This contradictory research sparked discussions and debates among users about the role of statin drugs in reducing cholesterol levels and their potential impact on health outcomes. The video also prompted many to consider the importance of maintaining a balanced lifestyle for overall health, especially as we age.
In Guangzhou, two bath assistants - Yanedong and Bai Fengrong - have dedicated over ten years of their lives to providing dignified care to elderly individuals who cannot bathe on their own due to illness or disability. They shared the challenges they face in serving these vulnerable individuals, often dealing with feelings of embarrassment, fear, and loneliness. Their work serves as a reminder of the struggles faced by many elderly people and the importance of empathy and support in our communities.
To promote healthy aging and brain health management among the elderly, the Shanghai Ruijin Institute suggested daily diary manuals designed specifically for middle-aged and older adults, such as The Daily Diary Gift of Old Children. They encouraged netizens to share small stories about their elderly loved ones in the comments section and offered to gift three friends with this helpful tool.
In Quanzhou, a public security video emphasized that health supplements should not be considered as substitutes for medical treatment. This message underscored the importance of proper healthcare practices and advised avoiding any misconceptions about the role of supplements in health management.
Lastly, an inspiring Weibo post from Uncle Ride shared his travel experiences around the world, eliciting positive reactions from netizens who praised his spirit of adventure and zest for life. This served as a reminder that age is just a number, and it's never too late to live a fulfilling life.
In conclusion, while the Double Ninth Festival provided an opportunity for people to remember and honor their elders, social media posts throughout the month of October continued to emphasize the importance of respecting and valuing our aging population. They highlighted various aspects such as health, well-being, and struggles faced by many elderly individuals, reminding netizens of the responsibility we have towards them. As we move forward in life, these messages serve as a constant reminder to care for our elders and show them the love and respect they rightfully deserve.