Acharya Mahaprajna
Declining Efficiency of the Senses
It is said that the efficiency of the senses begins to decline after one has reached the age of 40 years. The order of the declining efficiency of the senses mentioned in the ancient medical treatises is similar to what the modern science has to say. According to the modern medical science, the power of the eyes begin to decline after the age of 40 years. Till the age of 40 years, we are in the stage of full development. After that, the decline begins. This process goes on as time passes. The efficiency of all the five senses continues to decline and a day comes when old age overtakes man.
This is a very significant indication. A person should certainly become alert when he reaches the age of 40 years. It would be best if he remains alert right from the beginning. But if he does not remain alert after attaining the age of 40 years, his old age can never be comfortable. After a certain age, being careful about what should be eaten and what should be avoided stands one in good stead. Preserving the efficiency of the senses is the first formula of a healthy life. If the power of hearing declines, then there is a problem. If the power of the eyes declines, then also there is a problem. If one is unable to hear and see, life would appear to have lost all meaning.
