I couldn't agree more with this! I will say that it is not necessarily totally universal though. There are definitely different cultures that respect the elderly much more than western culture. Japan is a great example. There aren't an abundance of care homes in Japan because many families live together and their parents/grandparents live with them. This idea of isolation is a fairly new one. It is extraordinarily prevalent in the United States, where everyone has this driving desire to move as far away from their family as possible. I suppose this started when people began to move West and settle. I think it's sad.

I personally feel responsible for my parents. They are not incapable by any means, but I have turned down many opportunities to leave my home city in order to remain by them, to enjoy their grandkids and to help them when they need assistance. I feel like it's the least I can do for the time they gave up for me at the peak of their lives. I definitely think I am in the minority though!

This was a really nice article! Thanks for posting.