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Some people say that the family should take care of senior citizens while others argue the state should be responsible for their care. Who do you think should take this responsibility?

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The responsibility of caring for the elderly has always been a topic of debate, especially whether it lies with one’s family or the government? In my opinion, the family should bear the primary obligation, and the authority should give a hand to support those with complex needs or those without family members to care for them.

There are several reasons why family members are better to take care of their parents or grandparents. First, it is a form of returning gratitude in that elder family members took a great deal of time and effort to bring up their children, to care for the children when they were little. For example, my parents worked around the clock to raise me, they sacrificed a lot for me; thus, it is moral obligation for me to take care of them when they get older. Second, being taken care by family members could more beneficial for the elder relatives’ well being. Family members usually have a close relationship with each other, so they can provide not only practical but also emotional support for their elderly relatives which can make them feel secure and happy.

The government should provide care for senior citizens with special needs. This can be those with complex health conditions, or acute aged-related illnesses that their family alone are unable to care for them. These senior citizens or their families contribute to tax system through their work, therefore, their elderly relatives are entitled to an adequate health care when they need. Some senior citizens, in addition, do not have any family members to take care of them. For these cases, the government should provide support to ensure these citizens have a safety net to live and be taken care of in their old age.

In conclusion, I think family members should take responsibility to care for their elderly members. With those their family cannot provide care for them, the government should step in and support them.