Well summer’s officially over for another year, the nights have begun to draw in and it’s dark when I wake up once more. It’s hard to believe that in just four months it will be Christmas time and we’ll be counting down until the New Year. Where did the year go? It seems to be flying by. I for one have had a great summer, I’ve been on holidays, I’ve had BBQs with friends and I’ve helped my daughter celebrate her 21st birthday.
The weather hasn’t been half bad either, after last year’s glorious sunshine I was expecting this year to be a washout, but I’ve been pleasantly surprised at the temperatures and I’ve even been able to make use of my patio to enjoy a tipple or two in the evenings. I’m not complaining about autumn or winter though, I do love putting the fire on and enjoying the warming food that comes with the season. My problem is I just don’t think I’m ready for 2015 yet, I haven’t even had a chance to recognise it’s 2014!
OAP NO MORE
A recent survey has shown that the stereotypical image of the older generation is no more because modern pensioners believe bingo and knitting are “boring”. Apparently the current golden generation are turning their back on traditional pastimes such as flower arranging, bowls and bridge. Instead more than half of the over 60s polled revealed an adventurous streak, with holidaying abroad, taking Zumba classes and pampering days coming top of the routine.
And the reasons? More than 50 per cent said they were not reckless enough in their youth and were aiming to make up for it now. I know through my work at Mature Times this is a far more accurate picture of our old age. I still find it incredible to read the stories that flood into us every day of ‘modern-day pensioners’ taking on challenges they never would have dreamed of. Have you done anything incredible? Let us know, we’d love to hear!
CROOKS ON CAMERAS
On the subject of the new-age pensioner it seems that more and more are being reported for the heroic efforts they take to protect their homes and businesses. Every day I read at least one story about a fearless over-50 who has taken their life into their own hands and fought off would-be burglars or con men. I’m thrilled that people are willing to fight to protect what they’ve got but if I’m being honest it worries me that it happens.
More and more seem to think it is ok to prey on our elderly people, and see them as ‘easy targets’. The police and local authorities are trying hard to crack-down on this type of behaviour, and great new initiatives have been rolled out in affected areas. But we as neighbours need to do our bit too. Unfortunately we live in an age where we need to be on a constant watch for those trying to pull a fast one, it’s sad, but it’s true. There are many more stories of people who weren’t as lucky as the ones who manage to fight off the crooks, let’s try and keep a vigilant eye out for them as well.
SCOTTISH INDEPENDENCE
By the time this goes out Scotland will be on the brink of deciding if it wants to remain part of the UK or not. It’s a very strange thought to think that if I want to visit friends north of the border I could be going into a new country. I’m not going to go into my views on the situation now, but if you’re interested in the pros and cons the August Mature Times edition has what you’re looking for. I just hope that whatever decision is made works out for the best, and people learn to adjust accordingly if it doesn’t go the way they want.
Andrew Young – MT Editor
