Peg Willcocks has her say

Peg Willcocks was among several residents responding to questions about becoming older as part of OCAV’s contribution to the UN International Day of the Older Person on Thursday 1 October. This year is the 30th anniversary of the day, and the 75th anniversary of the United Nations.

What is the greatest thing about being your age?

Having done your bit for your family you are now free to do as you want. It may sound selfish, but I have 25 grandchildren and 35 great grandchildren and it’s now their parents’ journey.

Do you ever look back and say the ‘good old days?

Yes. Looking back they were as good as they were going to get.

What is your hope for the future?

I don’t look to the future. I take life day by day.

Do you think that wisdom automatically comes with old age?

No. I’ve met some foolish older people. Life experiences teach you wisdom.

What makes you mad about the world today, and can we change it?

Greed! We’ve lost the art to live a simple life. Some people want more and more and bigger and bigger. Don’t think we can change it.

What is the one thing you would tell the Prime Minister to do for older people?

I think older people are well looked after. Keep listening to them.

Some people say that old people are a burden to society. What would you say to them?

We have the right to be a burden. Younger people have a responsibility to look after their elders as we did in our day.