‘Neglect of parents emerging as major health risk’

Srinagar, Sep 29: An awareness program was organised on World Heart Day by GK Labs, Moul Mouj Foundation, and Kashmir Clinics Central, Karan Nagar, focusing on heart health and the overall well-being of senior citizens. The event was attended by caregivers and medical professionals.

While tips were shared on preventing heart disease and its complications in the elderly—such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, adequate hydration, good sleep, quitting smoking and alcohol, and proper management of diabetes, hypertension, and cholesterol—the major emphasis was on the role of mental stress, anxiety, and depression in worsening health outcomes.

In the statement, Dr. Zubair Saleem, Senior Geriatric Consultant, said: “Almost all seniors have one or more chronic diseases, but what accelerates their progression is stress. In Kashmir, one of the primary sources of stress among many ageing parents is the psychological trauma caused by neglect, lack of care, or insensitive attitudes of their adult children. Alongside medical measures, what is equally important is a caring and compassionate attitude of children towards their ageing parents. This not only protects heart health but also helps in controlling other diseases and reducing the risk of cognitive decline.”

He added that the neglect of ageing parents is a serious social problem that needs to be corrected through awareness and collective responsibility. As life expectancy increases, the burden of chronic diseases—especially mental health decline, dementia, and uncontrolled health parameters due to neglect—is rising alarmingly.

Participants expressed that the session offered a fresh perspective, making them realise how profoundly the behaviour of adult children impacts the health and well-being of their ageing parents.