Dear Annie: Age discrimination?

Dear Annie: I run a small bed and breakfast in a very small, rural, up-and-coming town.

We have recently had a number of guests who are in their 90s who have had health issues or injuries while staying with us. This has me very much on edge.

Many of these folks have grown up in this town and want to come back to visit family or see the many new developments in our town.

While this is lovely, I believe the travel and unfamiliar surroundings can make some elderly people very out of sorts. We do not want to age discriminate, but we are concerned that people might endanger themselves by coming here, especially if not with other family or friends.

What is the kindest way I can determine if a guest can handle the travel? I don’t want anyone getting hurt or worse.

Thank you. — The Innkeeper

Dear Innkeeper: There is no kind way to tell people based on their age that they cannot stay with you; that is age discrimination.

While your concerns are real, a young person or a baby could get injured at your bed and breakfast, too.

If you are that concerned, you could consult an attorney about creating a document that would protect your bed and breakfast from any liability.

But what is this town where so many people live to their 90s? No wonder it is up-and-coming!

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