Need to Avoid Schism Between Old, Young

As a non-retired, “healthy” but certainly not “wealthy” professor in the School of Family Studies at San Diego State University, I am concerned over the implications of Dick Turpin’s column (Feb. 12).

We must avoid a schism between those who are advocates of child care and those concerned about senior problems. This story, which seems to present an “either/or” approach, indicates a potentially harmful stance in the upcoming battle for budget dollars.

We cannot allow this to happen, since we may lose the small benefits now allowed under the current tax laws. Note that instructions for Form 2442, Credit for Child and Dependent Care Expenses, state that it can be used for any person in the household who is mentally or physically incapable of self-care.

This credit should be expanded to become available to those with incomes below the tax-paying bracket, and should be recognized as one of the major supports for those with dependent-care expenses that include day-care centers for seniors. Many middle-aged workers, mostly women, are only able to stay on their jobs because there are community programs for their dependent parents. Let’s all work together from a life-span perspective, not bicker over who gets the most benefits.

DOROTHY W. HEWES

San Diego