Respect and protect our vulnerable elderly

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NE of the hallmarks of a civilisation is how it cares for and protects the elderly. This has been brought into sharp focus in two stories we run today, including the tragic death of Second World War veteran Peter Gouldstone just weeks after he was attacked by burglars in his bed in the run-up to Remembrance Sunday.

The second is the call for a crackdown on carers who try to rip off the elderly.

Both stories highlight that we still have some way to go to better protect pensioners and to bring about a culture of respect needed in this country.

It is shocking that a 98-year-old war hero, who fought for this country’s freedoms, should be attacked in his bed – and those responsible should be caught and made to feel the full weight of the law.

Similarly, while the vast majority of carers are truly dedicated, there must be far tougher measures against those who abuse their position.

So we welcome Lib Dem MP Norman Lamb’s demand for stronger legislation in this area.

The value of respecting your elders may be an old one but it should never go out of fashion.