Old Age, Lonliness and Beyond!

An elderly individual shares his story on social media, which has now become a common experience in old age and assisted living across the globe. I have reproduced the excerpts/ summary.

Quote.”

“I am 82 years old, with 4 children, 11 grandchildren, and 2 great-grandchildren. I now live in a 3×3 room in a nursing home, where my family has left me. I no longer have my own home or the possessions I cherished. But I do have someone to tidy my room, prepare my meals, make my bed, take my blood pressure, and weigh me.

I no longer hear the laughter of my grandchildren, or watch them grow, embrace, and argue. Some visit me every couple of weeks, others every few months, and some never come at all. I no longer make my favorite dishes or crochet like I used to. Sudoku is my last hobby, providing me some entertainment.

I don’t know how much time I have left, but I’m trying to adjust to this loneliness. I attend occupational therapy and help those in worse shape than me when I can. But I try not to get too attached—they often disappear. They say life is getting longer, but for what purpose? When I’m alone, I look at pictures of my family and the few mementos I brought with me from home.

That’s all I have now. I just hope the next generations understand that family is meant to ensure a future. We should give back to our parents, just as they gave us their time when they raised us. Taking care of those who once cared for us is the highest honor.”

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It seems this is now the reality of today’s world. Perhaps the only way to navigate it is by forming friendships with those at least 20 years younger. These friends, often retired themselves, can offer companionship until we part from this world. In turn, they can do the same, befriending younger people to smooth their own journey through old age. I don’t blame the younger generation; life today is fast and merciless, and they risk falling behind if they stay too close to their elders.

This anonymous story reflects the inevitable challenges we face due to increased life expectancy, the breakdown of extended families, and the rise of individualism. The situation becomes even more grim when one out of the couple departs leaving his partner totally alone. As we live longer, we need to adjust our lifestyles so that we can age with dignity and grace.

Guchi.