I READ with sadness your article on the plight of many of the elderly in society (“Depression in elderly one of greatest health challenges”, The Herald, December 14).

One could argue we are suffering from what could be alluded to as an epidemic of loneliness, where many of the elderly within our communities are becoming increasingly marginalised.

Having worked in a voluntary capacity for some years with a local elderly group, I witnessed first-hand the impact loneliness can have upon many of senior generation and the fear that this can cause them.

Many in society might feel that they do not have the time or patience to visit the elderly or are simply indifferent and perhaps forget the plight of those to whom a telephone call or friendly greeting would mean so much.

I was interested to read of some of the measures being advocated by charities, such as the “12-point plan” which, I am sure, will go some way to ameliorating the situation many of our elderly citizens find themselves in. Furthermore, it is absolutely correct to call for people to be “more tolerant” of the elderly especially in relation to degrees of patience in public situations.

However, surely it is our duty to ensure that the elderly within our communities are protected.

One can play one’s part by simply calling either in person or on the phone to say hello and to enquire if anything is needed on a regular basis; or even something as simple as merely demonstrating an interest if perhaps an elderly neighbour has not been seen for a few days. One must not forget we shall all be elderly ourselves some day.

John G. McMenemy,

14 Braeside Avenue,

Milngavie.