Not just any job for the elderly

I refer to the commentary “Countries for old men (and women)” (April 7). At first glance, it seemed like another article encouraging old folks to continue working or get a job so that they stay happy in old age.

I wish to highlight, though, certain words used briefly in the article. According to the research cited, the work must be “voluntary” and “meaningful”. Without those two words, one might justify the elderly doing just any job.

In Singapore, some of the elderly take on odd jobs such as cleaning and clearing of tables. While it may be argued that they do so voluntarily, I am unsure if the word voluntary in the article meant this.

Voluntarily should mean that the elderly take on a job because they choose to and not because they are compelled by reason of livelihood or a lack of less menial work for them.

The other crucial idea is that it must be meaningful work.

I wonder if most of our elderly folks have much understanding of this for I have observed many grumpy and frustrated older workers who are easily provoked and hardly smile or make eye contact.

If we are encouraging the elderly to do laborious jobs, I am not sure that we are in any way enhancing their happiness.

Neither do I know what message we are sending to our young children.

A good country for old men and women ensures that there is support and wellness, provides availability of choices and has the common sense that old people should not undertake menial work.