A weekly programme which focuses on people and the situations which shape their lives
Reporters Jim Douglas Henry, Jeremy James, Jeanne La Chard, Gillian Strickland,
Desmond Wilcox, Harold Williamson

Most people, if they're honest, dread growing old. What is even more difficult to accept is getting old and finding yourself living in reduced circumstances.
Undoubtedly the upheaval is more upsetting for 'gentlefolk' - people from upper-middle classes, once used to the good life, now keeping up appearances as backgrounds change and incomes dwindle. They're a proud people. They don't seek sympathy; don't want it.
Years ago they may have lived in big houses; given and gone to big parties. There was 'the theatre,' the 'world trips.' Now it's a lesser life in hotels, hostels or homes run by other gentlefolk, younger and richer, but aware that sometime they too might find themselves in similar circumstances.
This week's Man Alive examines gentlefolk in general and three in particular. Old people forced to change their way of life. They're not sad because they've learned to live with their lot. Their good old days may be dead; their memories are very much alive.
(Colour)