A discourse on the abilities of the elderly

May 13, 2017 Letters

Dear Editor,
I just read the plaintive article on “The plight of the Elderly”. Concerns about the aging population seem to be facing many Administrations.
Whenever I hear radio talkshows about what to do to make life easier for the elderly, the emphasis is placed on what can be done for them by way of “caring”.
As I see it, as long as some of the elderly being discussed are still in reasonable health and able to walk about, why should they not be able to do something to help themselves and contribute something to the community.
I think putting old and young strangers together may be one way of trying to sort out this matter. I am approaching my 87th birthday, fortunately I am still able to travel around by public transport, and have found that just chatting with youngsters still at school at bus stops and on the buses often produces such all-round interest that at times there is a reluctance to part ways.
Youngsters appreciate the experience and sound advice of the elderly; the elderly appreciate the attention of youth. At least that is my experience in London. I expect human beings are basically the same wherever.
Consider getting elderly and young age groups together, so that they can try to help one another mentally as well as physically. Sometimes just a little friendly chat with someone, exchanging ideas, can help so much.
I remember not too long ago sitting next to a schoolboy on a public bus, asking about his school day, telling him to make the most of his time at school, because “what is in his head” is something no one can rob him of.
It is his for life and can be carried wherever he goes. I mentioned to him that I first gave that advice to my own son while at primary school. That caused the boy to ask whether he took my advice seriously and how he did at school.
I was able to tell him that he gained a BA (Hons) degree in English and a Masters in the Humanities, and settled for a job in the Civil Service. He seemed impressed. I hope it helped. The elderly and the young together could help one another, given encouragement.
Geralda Dennison

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