Jesus loved everybody, especially the least protected. He wanted to mix with all who felt vulnerable and envelope them in his love. A quick cure for feeling alone is to be visited or asked to get involved. For we all need attention and purpose in our lives, and a sense of belonging. We need to be connected to people and somebody to expect us to get involved.
Elders can be the best of teachers.
But to learn from them we must listen to their stories and value their wisdom. One of their lessons is gratitude. He encouraged older people to see every season of their life as a gift and to use their experience and free time to help others. The service of the Gospel has nothing to do with age. My father who enjoyed his years of retirement by helping others, and by living his last three years gracefully despite a steady and profound loss of memory.