Sir, – So we are to expect a sudden and calamitous loss of our abilities at the age of 70. (Maltings report, Herald, May 5). Presumably there has been research and careful statistical analysis to verify this contention – though I have to say that observation among my friends affords no support to the theory.
But why 70? Surely if there is going to be an age when people are declared "Officially Ancient and Past-it" this should be (as indicated by the acronym) when a person becomes an "OAP".
So all those drawing their old age pension, being members of a council or holders of public office, should immediately resign?
What a good idea! Well - not really; it would be rather silly. And my purpose in writing this is to protest through gentle ridicule at this ageism, which I find foolish as well as offensive.
For to seek to put a period to one's capacity by the calendar, or to set a term to ones faculties according to the orbits of the earth, is in every sense a "fallacy in duration and superannuated piece of folly".
David A Latter
Lower Bourne
Farnham