Light and dark in aged society

Aging is rapidly proceeding in developed countries. Recently, it is not surprising that elder people's acts often attract public attention.

Nonetheless, aging is aging. Generally speaking, elder people are considered as having lesser reflex and less sexually aggressive than young people.

But some news betrays such common senses.

Ernie Smith is a holder of Guinness World Record as the oldest active pilot. He is now 99 years old. He got the aircraft license in 1946, and he has been a pilot for 70 years. Even recently, he takes three or four short flights a week.

USA Today: World's oldest pilot takes flight on his 99th birthday

It is amazing that such an old man can fly with safety. It is due to both his excellent ability and the development of technology regarding aircraft and aerodynamics.

On the other hand, traffic accidents caused by elder people are issued in Japan. In general, younger people are more likely to take reckless driving. But the car accident rate is higher in people with over 80 years old than youth, according to current statistics. The government will enhance the regulation of renewing the driving license for elder people.

Another topic among elder people is a little disappointing. A 101-year-old man was jailed for 13 years. His conviction suggests sex offense for children.

International Business Times: 101-year-old paedophile Ralph Clarke jailed for 13 years after becoming UK's oldest convict


Ralphe Clarke was found guilty of indecent assault and gross indecency relating to the two girls. He denied the committing crimes, but the judge admitted that he had abused the girls who were aged between four and thirteen.

He is considered as pedophilia. The sexual drive itself declines following the senescence, but disordered sexual orientation is stable despite the aging.

Pleasant elders will vitalize the society. In contrast, elder people are expected to be mature and behave tolerantly. I hope the society in which all generations are collaborative.