Should we be fearful of growing old?

A NEW survey has revealed that one in six people would rather die young than be alive in their 80s. We asked our Email Jury if they agreed or if they would rather live to a ripe old age. And what did they feel were the benefits of growing old?

■ I am 80 next month, fit and healthy with a few aches and pains. I drive, do yoga twice a week, I’m on various committees and am generally enjoying life. What’s not to like? You have to look after yourself. No-one can do it for you.

Elizabeth O’Regan, Lincoln.

■ We thought exactly the same when we were young. It’s only when you’re older that you realise how precious life is. Does someone actually get paid for these stupid surveys? William McGurk, East Kilbride.

■ Why on earth would anybody choose to die young? At the age of 87, I love my life. I’m blessed with good health, a great family, good friends, I’m reasonably solvent, enjoy three rounds of golf every week and the occasional pint or two. This is the only life I’ll ever have and I hope there is still some left.

David Coss, Cumbria.

■ With age comes experience, tolerance and hopefully empathy. Bea Smith, Doncaster.

■ The benefits of growing old? You see your family grow up. Experiences can be passed on to younger generations. You become more mature yet are

still on a learning curve. Cheryl

Payne, Hull.

■ As long as I have my health, life is wonderful for me. I want to live until I’m old. Carol Whitehead, Prestwich.

■ If you’re in good health, there is no reason to seek an early grave! Ron, Dunfermline.

■ With age comes memories, good and bad. And you develop an appreciation of

what is around you. James Plenderleith, Edinburgh.

■ You can start new adventures and travel with friends your own age with your free bus pass! Join groups and take in different experiences. Margaret Brown,

Rutherglen.

■ Growing old is nothing to fear. Keep active and interested in life and enjoy it. They really are the golden years. Allison Scotland, Roxburghshire.

■ It depends on your quality of life as you get older. Ian Roxburgh, Kilmaurs.