I think he could be right and this raises questions over the safety of our seniors in their homes. In Kāpiti, we have more than 3000 single-occupant households and a significant majority of these are elderly women. The demise of the cheque as a secure means of financial exchange has a psychological impact. The cheque is a foundational financial tool that has allowed older people a sense of control over their everyday lives. Such dependable means of financial exchange are particularly important during times of uncertainty.
I don't think it's an exaggeration to point out that the Covid pandemic has punched a hole in our sense of safety that comes from the predictability of everyday life. On top of that, there is the increasing bad news on the current and future impact of climate change and the worry, I suspect, grandparents have for the future of their grandchildren.
We are also experiencing serious challenges to the global geopolitics and the dominance of western powers. For a final observation on this, I refer to a comment by CNN current affairs TV presenter Christiane Amanpour. Covering the funeral of Prince Philip she noted that it was symbolic of the passing of the war generation exemplified by the values of duty, service and the dogged commitment to getting on with life.
Lastly, I want to highlight another senior citizen in the news. Stuff published a story this week on Eric Clarke. This resident of Feilding, who is suffering from multiple illnesses, had told the media that he was thinking of returning his Queens Service Medal back to the state because of his poor treatment by the health services there. Many locals will remember him. Eric was given his QSM for services he had rendered while in Paraparaumu.
He lived at a Michael St house with a large home theatre where he showed films on a large screen with an impressive sound system. He used it to raise tens of thousands of dollars for Free Ambulance. His commitment is underpinned by a sad story. He lost his only child to suicide. He always felt indebted to the ambulance service, which tried everything to save his son. He moved to Feilding about 10 years ago after the death of his wife. There, he continued to raise funds for St John. I'm sure, like me, there will be many in Kāpiti concerned for his continued wellbeing.