Opinion - Letters to the Editor   

Senior citizens

This refers to the article “Are senior citizens treated well by society?” (Open Page, March 30). Many people, after their mandatory retirement at 60, take up employment in companies to prove their efficiency and control over their mental and physical faculties. Many believe that the most productive years of a person’s working life is between 60 and 70 as he draws on his rich experience, innovative skills and worldly knowledge. A senior citizen has a right to be treated respectfully for the contribution he has made to society.

P. Krishnan,
Puttaparthy

While it is a fact that the transition from a busy life to a retired life is difficult to handle and adjust to, the elders can age gracefully and plan for a durable, happy and contented living. Senior citizens can cultivate quality friendships and focus on what they possess, not on what they have lost. One must recall Cicero’s words that an honourable old age has so great a meaning and value that it is more valuable than all the pleasures of the youth. We can also recall Seneca’s words of wisdom that “the gradually declining years are among the sweetest in a man’s life and … even when they have reached the extreme limit, they have their pleasure still.”

T.V. Ramamurthy,
Chennai

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