I HAD an aunt who was in a care home. Sadly, she passed away a few months ago. She didn’t have many visitors, but it wasn’t that she didn’t have many relatives – they just didn’t bother.

Just half an hour makes all the difference to their long day. They don’t ask for much and seeing a friendly face, talking to someone else, will mean so much to them.

None of us want to become ill in old age and spend our last days in a care home.

So we all need to spare a thought for old people in care homes and if they are related to you, then please, please visit them as often as you possibly can. If they have dementia, just sit with them, hold their hand, show some affection, give them a hug. After all, they are your flesh and blood.

Don’t forget about them: it could be you in care home one day.

The saddest thing my aunt ever said was she missed being hugged.

E FRIEND Harwood Road East Hagbourne