Why is touching an important part of a relationship with an elder?

Human connection: Humans like many other mammals communicate affection and love via touch. Unfortunately for our society, as we get older, we usually stop showing affection to our elderly. Few people see them regularly, sometimes they have disease processes that people don't want to see, have a "sick odor", etc. Touching shows affection. Imagine not touching a baby. They require it all day..Adults need it too.