Re: Seniors living alone

This is very true, Muddy.
When I worked, the 'oldies' used to say they missed touch, even a simple thing like someone holding your hand.

It is not only missing being touched, it works both ways, and we also have no one to give touch to, either.

I could never live totally alone without my animals. They give a lot of affection in their own way, and also enjoy nothing more than being petted and groomed, so touch works both ways there.

It is sad when one day, the only touching we are likely to receive will be from medical people poking about!

Re: Seniors living alone

I don't miss the touch thing, I have a very slight phobia about it, I don't like being touched and feel it's an invasion of my personal space.

I realise that I'm probably a bit weird because of that, my doctor says it's all part of my subconscious desire to hold the entire world at arms length so nobody can get close enough to hurt me.

I disagree because I've been like it for as long as I can remember. My Mum told me I was never a cuddly baby, if she ever tried to cuddle me I'd struggle to get away and that behaviour has carried on my entire life.

So I don't miss the physical closeness. Sometimes though I need someone to tell me to man up, stop being a wuss, stop being paranoid etc. It can sometimes be scary on your own when there's nobody to help deal with the occasional domestic disaster.

Re: Seniors living alone

I do agree...but it does put me off after he's been vigorously licking his goolies.

Re: Seniors living alone

Those of You who live with a Partner will have to one day live alone if Your Partner dies before You..it's just how it is....I've not lived with a Partner for 25 yrs and I've lived totally alone for 20 yrs since My youngest Daughter married..so I'm well used to it by now,and if I'd ever met a Man I WANTED to live with..I would have done..but I certainly wouldn't dream of sharing My Home with Someone just because I may feel lonely when I'm old,...I get all the hugs & kisses I need from Children/G,Children,and I still go out on dinner/lunch dates occasionally...all in all..I'm quite content with How things are.

Re: Seniors living alone

I posted a response to this once but it has vanished so I will try again.
I am ninety one years young and live on my own. I lost my dear wife ten years ago and although my children suggested a care home it is not for me. This is just my opinion but to me a nursing home, care home or whatever you like to call it is to me similar to being in a prison. Once you set foot inside the door your life is taken from you and put into someone else's hands .
You are under their control from the time you are woken in the morning till the time they tell you to go to bed.
I have read so many reports of the treatment meted out to some 'inmates' it frightens me.
As I said I have lived on my own for ten years. I do my own cooking washing and ironing I am more than capable of looking after myself. I do have a lady come in once a week to give the place a good dusting and polishing. Being on my own I can go where I like, and when I like. I am my own boss. For my age I am in very good health although I did have a heart attack about a year ago and had a stent fitted but apart from that I am as fit as a butcher's dog. I went for a health check a short while ago and was told "You have a forty year old brain in a ninety year old body and you must do as your body tells me and not what your brain says"
A nursing home or what ever? I would sooner go on a one way visit to Beachy Head.

Re: Seniors living alone

Good post May, I too, have lived alone (except my dogs), for 17 years now, and have got used to it.
My son has never married so I have no grandchildren, like you do.

I'm not sure I could live with anyone, or more to the point, I doubt anyone could live with me. but we don't need to share a house and every waking moment with someone to care, and give/receive affection do we.

I think it is sad for older people who do miss their partner, because if they are retired, or cannot get out to socialise much, or family have moved away, it must be lonely sometimes.

Then again, I suppose it depends on our individual natures.
Some folks are more affectionate by nature than others. It's the same with some children too isn't it.

Re: Seniors living alone

Too true Mups..I grew up in a large Family of 6 Children and had loads of Aunts/Uncles/Cousins,the house was never quiet or empty..then I married young and had 3 Children of My Own..same thing..Relatives/Kids Friends/boyfriends/girlfriends...then Grandkids and all Their Friends...jeeze,I never had a minute to Myself it seemed...now..peace & quiet at last,..bliss...Of course I always feel so sorry for Folks who find Themselves alone and lonely..I just haven't experienced it...so unless We lose Our marbles..We must continue to keep on keeping on just as We are.

Re: Seniors living alone

Good post Ben and welcome !

Re: Seniors living alone

Yes,an excellent post Ben,I hope if I reach Your age I shall be as independent and positive as You...no care Home for Me either..may You live Your Life the way You wish for many many years to come.xx

Re: Seniors living alone

I've toyed with the idea of trying sheltered accommodation but the places I've seen are far smaller than my existing flat, so think I'd better revise that to buying a house for me and the dog.

I also enquired this week about rental flats for us olduns, where everything is provided. Meals, hot drinks and snacks during the day, flat cleaning, bills, council tax, laundry costs, and a van to take you to the shops. I filled in the online form for a brochure then got a phone call the next morning from the place. When I asked for the monthly charge I got quite a shock! More than twice my monthly income!!! I'll manage on my own, thank you very much, lol.

I love living alone, but do miss hugs and cuddles (my mum was very good at dishing out those).