Psycho-social, economic support system
THE experienced retired officers as well as workers round the world continue working, in both salaried and honorary jobs, making a noteworthy impact on the economic prosperity of their countries.
There is no economic or biological basis for retirement at a fixed age (often 60 to 65 in developed countries).
The nations where economies and social survival are mainly dependent upon agriculture, majority of older people, men and women, continue to contribute in their agricultural production until they are physically unable to carry out their tasks, which is often very late in life.
And in developed societies, there is a growing recognition that older people should be fully enabled to work as long as they desire.
According to World Health Organization Statistics “Between 2015 and 2050, the proportion of the world’s population over 60 years will nearly double from 12% to 22%.
By 2020, the number of people aged 60 years and older will outnumber children younger than 5 years.
In 2050, 80% of older people will be living in low- and middle-income countries. The pace of population ageing is much faster than in the past.
All countries face major challenges to ensure that their health and social systems are ready to make the most of this demographic shift”.
According to Pakistan’s Ageing Statistics of 2019, almost 15 million people living in Pakistan are aged over 60 which are 7% of the country’s total population.
The proportion of older people is expected to double to 12% in 2050 with 40 million people aged over 60. An ageing population increases the demand for health services.
Age should in no way prevent or hinder a person from getting a job and indeed the benefits of age should be acknowledged and remunerated.
The young unemployed job seeker may not have, for example, the necessary training or skills to take the place of the older worker.
Indeed, experienced older workers are needed to ensure that efficiency is sustained and that labour force permanency can be counted on by employers and customers.
The inclusion of experienced intellectuals by developing think tanks at regional offices, even at main branches to utilize their experience for training and development of young energetic but low skilled staff.
A sufficient contributory economical support may be provided to them for their services to the larger interest of the country. The socio-economical continuity is very necessary for physical and mental wellbeing.
Smooth transition, utility of intellectuals and creating think tanks will improve geriatric care and decrease the pitfalls after their retirement. This will also cover the ongoing gaps due to loss of experienced intellectuals.
A home-based working model can also be implemented. An online synchronization between the retired experienced officers and workers can be created to avoid their travelling.
The connectivity, livelihood and financially independent daily life activities are strongly related with old age health and well being. We must be encouraged.
A willingness and consent can also be taken at near retirement.
The youth needs employment and they are energetic to put more dedicated and passionate work same time the integration with the experienced seniors will help them to gain and boost their work performance. Ultimately all are contributing towards their countries’ development.
This is crucial time for Pakistan; it demands full support and intellectual’s great contribution; Smart ideas needs to be implemented by acumen and sagacious leadership to speed up the country’s development and rise of the nation. Long Live Pakistan
—The writer is contributing columnist, based in Rawalpindi.
