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IELTS Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

People are now living longer than ever before and many old people are unable to look after themselves. Some people believe that it is the responsibility of families to look after the elderly, while others say governments should provide retirement homes for them where they can be looked after properly. Discuss. Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

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🤩 Sample answers

Model Essay #1:

People are now living longer than ever before and many old people are unable to look after themselves. Some people believe that it is the responsibility of families to look after the elderly, while others say governments should provide retirement homes for them where they can be looked after properly.

In recent years, the average human lifespan has significantly increased, leading to a growing number of elderly individuals who require assistance with daily tasks. There is a debate regarding who should be responsible for caring for the elderly, with some arguing that families should take on this role, while others believe that governments should provide retirement homes for the elderly. In my opinion, both families and governments should share the responsibility of caring for the elderly.

To begin with, it is the moral obligation of families to care for their elderly members. Throughout their lives, elderly individuals have provided support and guidance to their families, and it is only right that their families reciprocate by ensuring their well-being in old age. Family members can offer emotional support, companionship, and personalized care that may not be possible in retirement homes. Moreover, caring for the elderly within the family unit promotes a sense of togetherness and strengthens familial bonds, which is crucial for the well-being of both the elderly and their family members.

However, it is unrealistic to expect all families to be able to provide the level of care and support that elderly individuals require. In cases where families are unable to provide adequate care, governments should step in to ensure that the elderly are looked after properly. This can be achieved through the provision of well-equipped retirement homes staffed with trained professionals who can cater to the diverse needs of the elderly. By offering this option, governments can ensure that elderly individuals receive the care and attention they deserve, even if their families are unable to provide it.

In conclusion, both families and governments should play a role in caring for the elderly. While families have a moral responsibility to care for their elderly members, governments should also provide support in the form of retirement homes for those who do not have familial support. By working together, families and governments can ensure that the elderly receive the care and respect they deserve in their old age.

Model Essay #2:

People are now living longer than ever before and many old people are unable to look after themselves. Some people believe that it is the responsibility of families to look after the elderly, while others say governments should provide retirement homes for them where they can be looked after properly.

In today's society, the average lifespan of individuals has increased, resulting in a larger population of elderly individuals who may require assistance with daily activities. The question of who should be responsible for the care of the elderly has sparked a debate, with some arguing that families should take on this role, while others believe that governments should provide retirement homes for the elderly. In my view, the primary responsibility for caring for the elderly lies with families, with the government playing a supportive role.

Firstly, it is the fundamental duty of families to care for their elderly members. Throughout their lives, elderly individuals have devoted their time and resources to raise and support their families. Therefore, it is only reasonable for families to reciprocate by providing physical and emotional care to their elderly members. Family members can offer personalized attention, companionship, and a familiar environment, which are essential for the well-being of the elderly.

However, there are instances where families may lack the resources or expertise to provide adequate care for the elderly. In such cases, the government should step in to provide support by establishing well-equipped retirement homes staffed with trained professionals. These retirement homes can serve as a safety net for elderly individuals who do not have family support, ensuring that they receive the necessary care and attention.

In conclusion, while families should bear the primary responsibility for caring for the elderly, governments should support this role by providing retirement homes for those who do not have familial support. By working in tandem, families and the government can ensure that the elderly receive the care and respect they deserve as they age.

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