It can't continue nor should it but look what happened when the government tried to reform pension increases. We heard a wailing and a gnashing of dentures from a group of society who have done very well over the years.
Yes -the oldies who come from a generation who had access to jobs with pensions, free health benefits by virtue of their age, so many of them with access to subsidised cars because of a minor disability. If they'd have lived post-war they'd have seen genuine disabilites. Older Hebburnites may remember a cobbler called Mr McMurchie who was short of a limb but still managed to carry on working in his shop in Tyne Street if memory serves.
And why do they need the larger, more expensive vehicles which many claim are necessary? Cars these days are taller and wider than in previous times. I know my neighbour has one and he boasts about the fact that he can take all his mates who chip in to the costs when they go fishing and it's no cost to him.
Then there's free or subsidised public transport, free blue-badge parking and I'm sure that all of you can think of other benefits..
Look in any garden centre / supermarket restaurant at lunch times and it's full of 'poor' pensioners -yes I know that other sections of society are probably at work then if they're lucky enough to have a job. Heating allowance? Again another denture-grinder and how many times have I heard my aquaintances say that it helps pay pay for their grandchildren's Christmas/birthday present!
My children are now grown up and in senior positions but they recognise that their children and grandchildren may have a pretty bleak future. Yet how many times do I hear these panpered old souls complain because they may have to sell their homes to pay for care in old age. Their children don't want the chore of looking after them but they're happy to take their money.
At 83 I accept that I am in a privileged position in many ways yet the selfishness of my contempories appals me at times.