Do not abandon your loved ones

SHAH ALAM - Parents who are left at the old folks home by their children for a long time would be negatively affected and would among others suffer from emotional distress.

Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) counseling psychologist Dr Fauziah Mohd Saad said this was because aging parents need their children by their sides even for a short time.

"When they miss their children, it will affect their mental health which could cause depression. This would then lead to them not wanting to follow their daily routine.

"Although we understand that many are unable to take care of their parents, but in a year, they should visit them especially during Aidilfitri.

"When they are depressed, and at the same time sufferring from diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure, they may no longer want to take their medications.

"This is worrying as it might affect their health," she told Sinar Harian.

Commenting further, she said children are advised to spend a minimum of one to two hours with their parents at the old folks home.

This, she said could help boost the mood of the parents who had been missing their children.

She said although the children no longer live together with their parents, they must always support their parents who are at the centre adding that support is the most important thing in a person's life.

"They (parents at the old folks home) are more independent, would take their medications and ready to join the programme at the care centre.

"Do not abandon them as it will bring a negative effect," she said.