Worrisome law revision

As our population grays, the well-being of senior citizens calls for careful consideration. The idea to update the current Law on Protection of the Rights and Interests of Seniors represents a sensible legislative response to the many challenges confronting the elderly.

The 1996 legislation laid out a framework of basic guarantees for a senior-friendly society. But it has been a "soft" law, thanks to some unenforceable clauses, and one of the proposed revisions may well make it even softer.

Under a proposed clause regarding those who live apart from their parents or other seniors whom they are obligated to take care of, people "should frequently visit their seniors, or send their concerns".