AS a pensioner living at home I was interested to read Brian Donnelly's article on alcohol and the elderly ("Daily drink for pensioners at home brings health warning", The Herald, July 25).
I agree with the comments expressed by Age Scotland that many older people living alone, perhaps less mobile, less able to get out to meet friends, feeling isolated or lonely, possibly having lost a spouse or partner, may seek solace in alcohol.
In my case I enjoy an occasional glass of wine, although more now than when my wife was alive.
After the death of my beloved wife it could have been so different for me if I had not had the loving support of my family, including my church family and friends, which I still have.
Far too many older people feel lost and lonely and lack good family support especially after the death of a spouse or a loved one, and may not be too concerned about behaviour.
This could reduce their life expectancy, as they look to the time when they will again be with their loved one, in which ever way they understand eternal life.
Ronald Lavalette,
Whitlees Court,
Ardrossan.
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