Long Island life beats Florida sun

The article “Why some seniors decide not to leave Long Island” [LI Real Estate, Oct. 17] made some good points, but I would like to add a few more rational ones.

We have great and varied shopping here. We also have an abundance of medical specialists and good hospitals close to home, which would otherwise require hours of driving in many parts of the United States. We also have extensive public transportation, which is particularly useful for seniors. And we have a four-season climate.

The mostly right-wing political attitude in Florida, particularly relating to environmental and educational policies, is objectionable to me. For those of us with allergies, Florida has a 12-month allergy season. And for seniors with a history of skin cancer and precancerous lesions, a location with more intense sun is not the best idea.

For us skiers, it’s a long way from Florida to any ski resorts. And for those who need Medicaid, New York has an enviable and compassionate Medicaid program compared to other states, including Florida. As for Medigap plans, some states, including Florida, charge premiums based on age — the older a person is, the higher the premium. New York Medigap plans, though, charge the same premium for a 95-year-old as for a 65-year-old.

— Daniel Okrent, Hempstead

‘Family fun’ outings should stay sober

I was disappointed to see the newest thing in entertaining youngsters — a fun day at the brewery [“Cheers to a family vibe,” exploreLI, Oct.  22]. Aren’t there enough problems on Long Island involving alcohol consumption, such as car crashes and road rage, without this?

Maybe young parents would be better served by being offered multiple suggestions of where best to socialize.

Here’s one: Use your own homes, parks, playgrounds, and maybe local schools. I dread to think of a young mother driving home after drinking even “only one beer.”

— Kathleen Connolly, Rockville Centre