Separating Orphanages and Old Age Homes: Enhancing the Well-being of Both
As a member of a social group that regularly visits orphanages and old age homes, I felt compelled to outline the distinct benefits of maintaining separate facilities for children in care and senior citizens. Although there have been instances where these facilities coexist, my experience and understanding strongly suggest that shielding them from each other is more beneficial in the long term. In this article, I will discuss why cohabitation is not ideal and the potential negative impacts on both.
The Unique Needs of Children vs. Senior Citizens
Children, especially those in an orphanage, have different developmental needs compared to the elderly. They require a nurturing and positive environment that fosters emotional well-being, fun, and laughter. Older adults, on the other hand, often suffer from loneliness, depression, and illness. The presence of these emotions can have a profound impact on the children who witness such negative energy.
Given these distinct needs, it is clear that the two groups should not coexist under the same roof. Our experience has shown that combining orphanages and old age homes can lead to detrimental psychological impacts on the children, and can also harm the emotional well-being of the elderly. The following points elaborate on why maintaining separate facilities is more advantageous for both groups.
Why Coexistence is Not Ideal
Negative Energy and Its Effects on Children
Children do not fully grasp the concept of depression; however, they are keenly aware of sadness and loneliness. They should not be subjected to a constant environment filled with these negative emotions. Witnessing the suffering of elderly individuals who are battling loneliness and illness can engender a sense of hopelessness and mimicry. This can lead to a dangerous shift in their mindset, causing some to lose interest in life and potentially develop vulnerable psychological issues as they mature.
Impact on Socialization Skills
Living in an old age home environment can adversely affect a child's socialization skills. An orphanage provides temporary shelter until the child is 18 years old, after which they must navigate the outside world with the ability to interact and form meaningful connections. However, if a child has spent 18 years observing depressed senior citizens, they may struggle to form healthy social relationships outside the institution, potentially leading to mental health problems.
Emotional Distress Induced by the Environment
Indoors, children may face numerous traumatic experiences, including witnessing the death of at least one person per month. Additionally, the sound of midnight screams due to illness and the pervasive smell of medication can create a stressful and isolating environment. Such circumstances do not foster positive social activities and can lead to long-term emotional distress.
Limitations Posed by Government Rules
Female orphans often need to report to the local district magistrate every 15 days to access registered female welfare services. This mandates that they stay separate from the elderly, as proximity to the elderly can affect their mental health and well-being. The sensitivity and emotional instability of the elderly mean that they are unsuitable caregivers for children, and this separation is sometimes necessary to maintain the mental health of the orphan.
Impact on Interactions with Families
Not all children in orphanages are orphans; some are placed there due to circumstances such as poverty. These children often have parents who visit them on weekends. A coexistent setup within an orphanage can disrupt the natural bonding and interaction these children have with their families, further complicating their emotional and social development.
Conclusion
While some argue that combining orphanages and old age homes can provide a form of community and continuity for the elderly and children, the emotional and psychological toll on both groups is significant. Maintaining separate facilities allows for better emotional support and fosters a more positive environment for the children's development. It also provides the elderly with a setting that better aligns with their specific needs for care and companionship.
Ultimately, the separation of orphanages and old age homes is crucial for the well-being and emotional health of both children and senior citizens. While this may require more resources and planning, the long-term benefits for all parties involved far outweigh the potential challenges.