Loners

We're the same age. Okay, so I'm a youthful 71, but almost up with you.

But that means we remember when our parents or even our grandparents got old and were put into nursing homes. Independent and assisted living places weren't around then, not really. And so the image too many of us have simply isn't the way it is any more.

Even though you are probably some years from it, do visit an independent/assisted living place reasonably soon. Again, even though you aren't ready for it, I think you'll be pleased and reassured.

One huge impediment is the cost. I know that many of them say that the cost of living there can be less than living on your own, but they are clearly marketing to a somewhat more affluent demographic than I am. I sincerely hope you are in that more affluent demographic. One problem is that you can't go on-line and find out what an independent/assisted living place costs, unlike booking a hotel room or an airplane flight. You can get some general information on line, which is somewhat helpful, but to get true specifics you have to either visit or contact specific places.

In truth, I should be able to afford an independent/assisted living place. It will take a significant percentage of my current income, but I shouldn't have to start selling off investments or anything like that. Heck, once I sell the home I live in I should have the cash to pay for the living place.

But much more to the point, I've over and over seen people completely resistant to moving into one of those places, and when they finally do they are very happy. They make new friends. That get to take little trips. Go to a casino. A movie. A museum. They're transported to grocery stores and doctors offices. All that is extremely good once a person can no longer drive.

Hang in there.