Granting leaves to take care of parents seems unbelievable. The service sector has different leave policies in place but none of them talk about one of the most pressing situations of present time, which is taking care of the seniors. There are only few places in the world where leaves are granted for taking care of parents.
In a welcoming move, Yangzhou in China has passed new regulations that allow individuals with older parents paid leave.The “Regulations on Preferential Treatment for the Elderly” will take effect on Jan 1.
As per China Daily, the Standing Committee of the People’s Congress in Yangzhou, Jiangsu province has passed this preferential treatment to the elderly “marking the first such local law in China.””This is a significant step forward,” said Xu Xiao, deputy director of the Legal Affairs Committee of the People’s Congress Standing Committee in Yangzhou. “Yangzhou first introduced preferential treatment measures in 2018. This new regulation builds on that foundation, incorporating feedback from a wide range of enterprises and adjusting provisions based on the city’s aging population,” he added.
With this law in implementation, employees whose parents are hospitalized will get a minimum of five days of paid leave per year. This year, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has declared special casual leaves for state government employees on November 6 and 8 to spend time with parents and in-laws.
“Such laws are humane”
The law has received massive appreciation from everyone. “As someone caring for both elderly parents and young children, these regulations are humane and practical. If my parents are hospitalized, I would feel more at ease knowing I can take time off to care for them personally,” 40 year old Zhong, who lives in neighboring Nanjing, told the media.
Taking care of the elderly
Taking care of the elderly is a crucial responsibility that involves addressing their physical, emotional, and social needs. As people age, they often face challenges such as declining health, limited mobility, and increased dependency. Providing proper care ensures they maintain a sense of dignity, security, and connection. Families play an important role, but the demands of modern life can make it difficult for individuals to meet all the needs of their elderly relatives. This is where the involvement of organizations becomes vital in supporting elder care.
Organizations, like ASLI or Association of Senior Living India, dedicated to elder care play a significant role by offering specialized services such as healthcare, companionship, and mental health support. They often provide caregiving facilities, home healthcare services, and counseling, ensuring that the elderly receive professional and comprehensive care. These organizations can also create awareness about common issues faced by the elderly, advocate for their rights, and promote age-friendly policies.
Moreover, organizations facilitate community engagement through social programs, reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness among seniors. By offering both practical support and emotional care, organizations complement the efforts of families and society, ensuring that the elderly can age with respect, comfort, and the necessary resources.
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