Rebellion in the Golden Years: Seniors Fight Back Against “Patronizing” Alcohol Ban
In the quiet Dutch town of Maassluis, a surprising uprising has taken place. Residents of the Oud Sluys apartment complex, a senior housing community, have risen up against a ban on “strong drink” in their communal living area. The ban, effective December 1, prohibits port and gin during daytime activities, including bingo nights. Wine, beer, and cider, however, are still permitted.
A “Patronizing” Move?
Seniorenwelzijn, the organization running the complex, claims the ban is designed to comply with “local health policy and social developments relating to growing old healthily.” But the seniors themselves are not buying it. They’ve taken to hanging hand-painted banners from their balconies, sporting slogans like “70-80-90 – baas in eigen glas” (in charge of my own glass) and “Advocaatje? Not any more.” Others display messages such as “stop being patronising” and “talk with us, not about us.”
Treating Seniors Like Second-Class Citizens
This may seem like a small issue, but it speaks to a larger problem. Senior citizens in retirement communities worldwide are often treated like children, having their rights stripped away. It’s a phenomenon that’s all too familiar, reminiscent of the way Ben Stiller’s character treats Happy’s grandmother in the movie Happy Gilmore.
When Rules Go Too Far
While some rules are justified for public safety, others are simply power trips. In this case, the ban on hard alcohol seems excessive, especially since most nights at Oud Sluys are likely spent enjoying a friendly game of bingo over a glass of wine. If someone gets out of hand, deal with them individually – that’s what staff are there for.
The Real Issue: Respect and Autonomy
Theepas, a representative from Seniorenwelzijn, claims the ban is for the residents’ health, citing the unhealthiness of strong drink. But the real issue is respect and autonomy. When authority figures dictate what seniors can and can’t do, it’s a recipe for resentment. As one might expect, the seniors are fighting back, and rightfully so. It’s time to treat them as equals, not children.
Justice for the Seniors of Oud Sluys
Let the old folks drink what they want. If someone gets out of hand, deal with that person individually. That’s what you’re there for. It’s time to show respect and give seniors the autonomy they deserve. Justice for the seniors of Oud Sluys – your glass, your choice.
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