State of our country: Part 5 - Growing old disgracefully

Two stories within a page of each other in Monday summed up everything that is wrong with our country today.

In a piece titled “We wannabe 82”, the article tells that a survey of more than 2000 people found just 3% of the population looked forward to old age with 43% dreading it. More than 40% of those questioned feared going to an old folks home. If you combine those who fear getting old to those who have developed a fear of spending their remaining years in a stale old home away from their family and loved one and being moved from pillar to post, the picture is a sad indictment of modern Britain and our inability to get our priorities right.

However, the story that incensed me was in the following page which perfectly demonstrated the lack of priorities amongst people today. It is not just the old but the trend amongst those who should be planning for their retirement better.

The story I am referring to is of an old woman who is leaving £3million pounds to some cats and dogs. I can’t stand dogs and just about tolerate cats. They are Gods creations and I am sure they have a place in life and serve a purpose for some but do nothing for me. Until, we realise that they do not and cannot take the place of human beings, we will continue to live sad lives.

If this woman and many like here just got their priorities right and made an effort to establish a family life of some sort with their children, grandchildren and other extended families, they would not be in fear of growing old and dreading ending up in an old peoples home. People need to spend their money wisely and understand the value of life and family to avoid being sad, lonely and living in fear of old age.