VATICAN CITY, APR 11, 2002 (VIS) - Made public yesterday afternoon was the Pope's Message to participants in the Second World Assembly on Ageing which is taking place in Madrid, Spain from April 8 through 12.
The Holy Father writes that "a society shows itself just to the extent that it meets the needs of all its members." He went on to ask: "How can we guarantee the endurance of a society which is ageing, and safeguard the social security of older persons and their quality of life?"
"In responding to this question," he continues, "we must not be guided chiefly by economic criteria; rather, we must be inspired by sound moral principles. In the first place, the elderly must be considered in their dignity as persons, which does not diminish with the passing years nor with physical and mental deterioration. ... Experience shows that when this positive view breaks down older people are quickly marginalized and condemned to a loneliness which is a kind of social death. And does not the self-esteem of older people depend in large part on how they are viewed in the family and in society?"
John Paul II affirms that the "effective inclusion" of the elderly in society with their experience, knowledge and wisdom entails "helping to solve the problems connected with ageing."
Furthermore, he adds, formative programs are necessary to educate people about ageing in order that they may adapt to changes in life-style and work.
The Pope underlines that in moments of suffering and dependence, the elderly "not only need to be cared for with scientific and technical means but also to be looked after with efficiency and love, so that they do not feel that they are a useless burden or what is worse reach the point of wanting and asking for death. Our civilization must guarantee to older people care which is rich in humanity and inspired by true values."
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