Make time for parents to avoid empty nest syndrome

empty nest syndrome (cartoon by John McPherson)

KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Shahrizat Abdul Jalil today urged children to make more time for their parents to avoid them from suffering the Empty Nest syndrome.

The Women, Family and Community Development Minister said children should stop giving parents excuses such as a busy schedule as it may cause them sadness, a sense of loss and loneliness.

She said mothers and fathers may grapple with the syndrome following sadness and depression after their children leave home to start a new life in studies, work or marriage.

According to Shahrizat, a study by the National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN) found that 41 per cent of parents aged above 60 suffered from loneliness.

Speaking to reporters after launching the “Kasihnya Ibu” exhibition in conjunction with the national-level Mother’s Day celebrations at the National Art Gallery, near here, she said the percentage is expected to rise should nothing be done to rectify the situation.

“Don’t use busy schedules as a reason, it is a child’s responsibility to care for and protect their aged parents,” she said.

In line with the Mother’s Day theme of “Sentiasa Ada” (Always There), she said although technology helps to keep family members connected it cannot replace a person”s actual presence.

Also present at the exhibition was the Prime Minister’s mother, Tun Rahah Mohd Noah, Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister Senator Heng Seai Kie and National Art Gallery director-general, Datuk Mohd Yusof Ahmad.

In conjunction with Mother’s Day, the ministry is also providing free health screenings to mothers at 56 LPPKN Nursejahtera clinics until May 15.