IELTS Agree or Disagree Essay: Health Topics with Sample Answers

Model Answer

In today’s fast-paced society, a significant number of individuals no longer assume the responsibility of caring for their elderly parents, opting instead to place them in nursing or care homes. This essay will explore the advantages and disadvantages of this trend in detail.

There are numerous reasons why placing elderly individuals in care homes can be immensely beneficial for both the children and the seniors themselves. Firstly, older adults do not interfere in the lives of their adult children, allowing both parties to live according to their own preferences and needs. Consequently, the younger generation is relieved from the burden of worrying about their parents’ daily care. Secondly, elderly individuals can enjoy a degree of independence in nursing homes, where they can engage with peers of similar age, fostering companionship and social interaction that may be lacking in a family setting.

However, there are several drawbacks associated with the separation of older adults from their families. Firstly, grandparents often provide invaluable support and guidance to their children and grandchildren. For instance, if a child is exposed to negative influences in the absence of its parents, it is typically the grandparents who step in to impart ethical values and appropriate behavior. Moreover, when children encounter challenges, it is the wisdom and experience of their elders that can offer sound advice and solutions, as they have navigated similar situations throughout their lives.

In conclusion, while nursing homes may offer certain advantages for families, they can also have a profoundly negative impact on the relationships among family members, particularly the grandchildren. So I contend that the disadvantages of nursing homes far outweigh their benefits.

Model AnswerGood health is a fundamental human need, and maintaining well-being is a priority for people worldwide. While some believe medical services should be provided by profit-driven companies, I feel that the disadvantages of private healthcare—such as limited accessibility and inequality—far outweigh its benefits, making the case for universal access to healthcare stronger.

The private healthcare system is losing popularity in many developed countries for two reasons. First, healthcare systems operated by the private sector are not necessarily more effective than their public counterparts. In fact, private hospitals and clinics often fail to meet established health standards. For instance, a recent study conducted in the Middle East revealed that a substantial number of private hospitals do not utilize tools and medications that comply with quality control regulations. This shows that the reputation often associated with private hospitals does not hold true in all instances.

Another significant issue is that profit-driven healthcare institutions tend to prioritize patients who can afford to pay higher fees, thereby marginalizing those who cannot bear the costs. For example, physician-assisted death is only available in select private centers at exorbitant prices, accessible only to the affluent. As a result, essential treatments and services may become exclusive, further widening the gap between the wealthy and the less privileged. This profit-driven model complicates the pursuit of equity in healthcare provision.

In conclusion, while the private healthcare sector continues to exist in various parts of the world,  its negative impact on healthcare quality far outweighs its minor benefits, such as reduced waiting times and quicker access to specialists. This is why an increasing number of countries are advocating for a public healthcare system that offers free services to all individuals.