This paper published in the journal Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge is an attempt to discuss the traditional knowledge of elderly people, their role and highlights many areas where it can be useful for elderly themselves. At present, the loss of biological diversity and erosion of traditional knowledge systems (TKS) are issues of great concern. Most of these knowledge systems are unique and are often known only to a few individuals or communities. This traditional knowledge includes mental inventories of local biological resources, animal breeds, local plants and crop and tree species.
Traditional knowledge may include information about trees and plants that grow well together, about indicator plants that show the soil salinity or are known to flower at the beginning of the rains. Research on traditional knowledge shows that younger generations often undervalue this knowledge. Moreover, with commercialisation of natural resources, traditional knowledge that managed to maintain sustainable levels of exploitation has been sidelined. In view of its potential value for sustainable development, it is necessary to preserve indigenous knowledge for the benefit of future generations.
TKS has the potential to provide the benefits in terms of healing, comfort and support as needed by the elderly people. Traditional knowledge can help benefit the elderly population in the country in selected areas, such as health care and nutritious food, stress management, artisanal skills etc. The paper provides insights for strategic utilisation of traditional knowledge and experience of elderly to address the need and improve the quality of elderly life in terms of socio-psychological, cultural, economic and health aspects. The paper argues that elderly people are generally aware of traditional knowledge as practised in their own region.
There might be many TKS from other regions in the country, which can benefit them if properly applied. Sharing of TKS for mutual benefit of elderly people in different regions is not difficult in modern times with vast opportunities available in technology. This valuable traditional information can be made accessible, affordable and adaptable to specific needs of elderly people, argues the paper.
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