The recognition of the elderly as responsible partners in the effort to achieve the great goal that cannot be measured in terms of economic efficiency, i.e. the testimony of love for the young generation, is the path indicated by the Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church to those who want to highlight the value of the elderly and human love.
"222. Love is also expressed in the generous attention shown to the elderly who live in families: their presence can take on great value. They are an example of connections between generations, a resource for the well-being of the family and of the whole of society: 'Not only do they show that there are aspects of life—human, cultural, moral and social values—which cannot be judged in terms of economic efficiency, but they can also make an effective contribution in the work-place and in leadership roles. In short, it is not just a question of doing something for older people, but also of accepting them in a realistic way as partners in shared projects — at the level of thought, dialogue and action.' As the Sacred Scripture says: 'They still bring forth fruit in old age' (Ps 92:15). The elderly constitute an important school of life, capable of transmitting values and traditions, and of fostering the growth of younger generations, who thus learn to seek not only their own good but also that of others. If the elderly are in situations where they experience suffering and dependence, not only do they need health care services and appropriate assistance, but—and above all—they need to be treated with love."
