Archie,
I understand your point but, it remains that life membership for a younger person is a great buy compared to a senior citizen. Aside from the prestige one derives from life membership for the senior, IMO, it's better to just pay his/her dues each year. Unless of course the club should offer an incentive in the future.
I am not trying to make this a major issue. Just wondered why? This club is still the best bargain around no matter how one looks at it.