I found Helen Mead's article on old people and the way many are enjoying a long, active and healthy retirement the funniest thing for ages (October 14).

Modern medicines and surgery, cleaner environments and better recreational facilities are certainly adding years to lifespans. But do not for a moment believe that this trend will continue, at least not if the younger adults do not change their lifestyles.

Those now living beyond the accepted three-score-years-and-ten were born in the Twenties and Thirties, and even earlier. They knew hardships we would not dream of accepting - no state handouts, basic housing with no mod cons, rough and ready maternity and sickness care and no compensation culture to alleviate sufferings from accidents and job losses.

They made the best of things, pulled together as families and communities in times of trouble and, of course, suffered through two world wars. They were survivors to whom the soft lives they now enjoy are as amazing as they are welcome.

With our junk food, lack of exercise, self-indulgences and self-imposed stress, many of our old folk will outlive their sons, daughters and even grandchildren.

I don't think Helen need worry about lack of funds in her old age - there will be far fewer real oldies around to share the national wealth.

Heather Causnett,

Escrick Park Gardens,

Escrick, York.

Updated: 12:07 Saturday, October 19, 2002