When one looks at society some have more problems than others like losing a loved one, health going downhill. This is something we all forget about when we think of the big retirement day, when we can do what we want, but the flesh says: ‘You gotta be kidding me'.

One of the worst situations is when one is alone. Loneliness can lead to much bigger problems health-wise and make life much harder with limited income. In Scotland they have this saying: ‘You gotta get oot the hoose', which means just that in English and mix with others over a wee coffee or whatever with someone.

Now if one could have a day in Tauranga to go with friends once or twice a month at a good price to mingle, this could save a life for some elderly people on a limited income. Perhaps some organisations could come to the party as many have had the above as customers in past years? Growing older is on the cards for most of us. Would it be so terrible to provide a wee treat now and then for them?

Ron Chamberlain, Otumoetai.