My mother-in-law once told me that since she was old, she could say anything she wanted.  My mother thought the same way.  Unfortunately, I have a very good friend who also thinks the same way.

I don't think any of the above waited for old age however.  They always said what they thought their whole lives.

They never considered how what they said hurt other people (or didn't care).  I know I was on the receiving end of a lot of cruel words.  It didn't make me a better person; but it sure made me realize I didn't want to be like them.

I'm for standing up for yourself and saying what needs to be said in certain circumstances.  I also believe you should take a deep breath before.  It helps to take the time to think if what you are about to say will be hurtful or useful.  Sometimes in the interest of helping someone what we need to say may be cruel.  But there are ways to do that to make it less hurting.  I haven't always been good at that.

Old age doesn't give us the right to hurt.  Old age doesn't really give us the right to do anything except cherish every day.  Older people have years of experience to give to other people.  It should be done in a way that will gain the respect of the other person.