I am not ashamed of any comment I have made - I have not said he was not entitled to courteous, careful treatment. Whether someone is 79, 109 or 9 I believe in treating them how I would wish to be treated myself. You will have to take my word for it but I am one of the most polite, courteous and caring people you would wish to meet. I also have an extensive background within the NHS dealing with both the elderly and pacemakers!!
My original post was intended to raise the question of who had 'forced' this gentleman to go through the detector. I think it was a strong phrase to use and I stand by what I said.
And ....final greens.... just out of interest my father and grandfather who lived to the ages of 91 and 98 respectively would have been deeply offended to have been described as 'vulnerable' at the age of 79!!
Brutish behaviour may well be 'a social norm' as you put it but I don't think it is confined to age and I don't recall the original poster describing anyone's actions as such.