A photo of an elderly woman collecting cardboard sparked pity among netizens, although others pointed out this was a matter of choice; the elderly would rather keep moving and working than stay home.
The debate on the topic took place in Facebook group Complaint Singapore on Wednesday (Oct 16) when a member posted a photo of the woman hauling a tall pile of cardboard on a trolley.
“So sad for this old lady. There’s a lot out there. Hope she’ll get the help she needs instead of slogging till her last breath,” the post noted.
The post added that the woman was seen collecting cardboard until 7 pm.
Netizens shared mixed responses on the matter, some noting that the woman’s children should be taking care of her.
Meanwhile, many pointed out the woman was probably choosing this activity for reasons other than financial stability.
“Sometimes old people don’t like to stay at home; they want to be moving around despite their children being well off,” said a netizen.
“Many old people like to keep active rather than sitting around doing nothing and counting the days. I personally know many of them at my workplace, some even own private properties,” shared Facebook user Desmond Chua.
“Being able to work at an old age are blessed (than) staying at home without doing anything. It’s better to go out and work. I want to work, but due to health problems, I cannot work,” added Facebook user Ella Andy.
However, the elderly should not be left with only the option of hard labour such as cardboard collection, especially if they have health issues, noted netizens.
Facebook user Nokie Ng looked at the bigger picture and said that the elderly collecting cardboard for exercise was not an issue as long as they were properly cared for.
Authorities “should check to ensure they have a proper place to stay with enough money for food and essentials,” he added. /TISG