To the Editor:

This letter is in response to a column in last week’s Enterprise by Mr. Palmeri [“Senior moments: Any day when you’re not pushing up daisies is a good day”].

Mr. Palmeri,

There are four stages of growing up in life:

 — 1. Infants: I need my diaper changed; I’m hungry; I need a nap;

 — 2. Young children: I need to go potty; I’m hungry; and the dreaded question, “Are we almost there?”;

 — 3. Teenagers: Whine, whine, whine; and

 — 4. Adults: Bathroom breaks; hungry; this day is never going to end.

So, when we become seniors, many of these things return, but not by choice. Yes, for all of us in different stages, we desire patience.

I don’t know what stage you are in, but I see you know about outhouses and land lines and are very experienced in the latest gadgets.

Facebook seems very important to you. Why do seniors need Facebook? Because you want them to see pictures and keep updated on family activities.

You are mad because they don’t want to learn how to use a computer or cellphone. We can still get pictures and updates by the landline and mail and read the paper.

Or better yet, a visit from family and friends. Patience, Mr. Palmeri.

You mention dietary restrictions. You should also use less salt and eat less fat.

Telling stories over and over again. Perhaps they know you weren't listening the first time.

Without television, what would we do? It makes the day go faster and provides us with entertainment while you are still on your computer and cellphone.

People stare because they can’t believe they are actually seeing a real human being. They are looking out their windows, hoping it is someone coming to visit.

It is nice that you wave. Let us not forget these people that helped you have a good life. But it appears you already have by “pushing up daisies.” Patience, Mr. Palmeri.

And please don’t call us heroes. I am president of the Hilltown Seniors with over 100 members. We all work and play together. I love to see them laughing and enjoying each other’s company.

They share a meal, share the ups and downs, share the news around us, share in sickness and health, embrace, and leave the meeting looking forward to the next time. We hug, cry, and try to make the best of our senior years. Patience, Mr. Palmeri.

No, we are not heroes. We are just people who care and, yes, Mr. Palmeri, have patience.

And please don’t feel sorry for us; feel sorry that you and your generation are missing the best years of your life and the only thing you will end up with is a bed in the Albany County Nursing Home with your computer and cellphone and staring out the window.

Senior lives matters.

Linda Carman

Knox