“OLD AGE NOT PROBLEM”

Press, Volume XCVIII, Issue 29016, 3 October 1959, Page 4

“OLD AGE NOT PROBLEM”

Thoughts For Planners (Aicjo ZealttHd Press Association) WELLINGTON, October 2. Old age was no more a problem than babyhood, adolescence or i vJdle age, said Dr. J. B. Mackay, Medical Officer of Health, Wellington, at the seminar on the care of the aged in Wellington. ‘‘Why should we insult our old people by calling them a, problem’’” she asked. “Every has it., assets and a contribution to make to the community good.” An ageing population did. however, lay a problem on the community. hi any medical planning for old people it must not be forgotten that it was individuals with whom the plans dealt. ‘‘Group their infirmities, blit respect their personalities,” she said. The difficulties of old age were physical and mental. Physical disability included lack of mobility. It was important to keep old people "on their feet.” The question of the retiring age was important, for work was closer to the elixir of life perhaps than anything else people knew. Mental activity in the aged could largely keep mental conditions at bay. Several overseas schemes which had operated successfully for some years provided foster homes for old people. Old people should be able to choose what they wanted to do, and not be coerced by planners. Dr. Mackay said she would like to see the benefits of occupational therapy available to all old people and physiotherapy provided aa required.