Does anyone feel old and useless with age?

Posted by sally12345 @sally12345, Sep 13, 2023

Hi, I'm almost 64.. I'm feeling old and useless. My strength isn't good anymore. Like it used to be mainly side effects of meds. My health is poor with cvsd. Osteoporosis, poor circulation, hearing , eyesight, you name it's going. I always took care of myself. Now I've gotten older and everything's wrong, my grandkids don't a want me around and they are little still. No friends to talk with or do things with. Why is it we spend our lifetime taking care of family. Loving friends to end up , old and tired. Useless.

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@wendyinbelize

Yes dear. I know how you feel. I am 66 and have some of the same feelings. I don't struggle with the physical problems yo have fortunately but the isolation, low self esteem and loneliness are unbearable at times.

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It’s really hard.

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@srqqd

Seems like a good plan that's working for you. I'm taking 20 mg of Lexapro. I'm not sure it's working as well as I would like. I had better results with Prozac, but then it stopped working.
May I ask what type of antidepressant you're taking?

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Lecapro. For a long time. Tried them all

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The absolute best thing for me was having a grandson at 63. I retired at 66 and my husband was killed in an accident six months later, having never retired. I stayed busy for many years taking my grandson to playgrounds, to a swimming pool (where I got exercise too) out to lunch, to movies, an occasional out of town trip, camp, cub scouts etc. He was with me more than anyone else....I even went back to church after years out so I could take him to Sunday School. Now I am 79 and he is 16 and I am feeling what you are feeling. I think you should see a psychologist or social worker too....but your grandkids would want you around if you were committed to enriching their lives. If you are sad and not focusing on them, that won't work. I was heartbroken as a widow when I was alone, but my sweet grandson kept me going. I don't see him as much, but I never turn down a chance to take him to school or pick him up. I show up for any school events and do what I can to stay in touch despite his devotion to his computer. If your grandkids don't respond, maybe find a way to spend time with kids in need of a person who cares....kids will help.

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I'm 76 and was paralyzed from the chest down in 2014 by meningitis. I live with my oldest daughter's family and I know I'm a terrible burden. I have recovered enough to walk to the bathroom. I read, watch TV, and they take me to the doctor. I'm so stubborn, I won't give up. Hang in there. I have had depression, anxiety, and panic attacks all my life; but wasn't diagnosed until 2005 when my son was medical school.

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@maggybird

The absolute best thing for me was having a grandson at 63. I retired at 66 and my husband was killed in an accident six months later, having never retired. I stayed busy for many years taking my grandson to playgrounds, to a swimming pool (where I got exercise too) out to lunch, to movies, an occasional out of town trip, camp, cub scouts etc. He was with me more than anyone else....I even went back to church after years out so I could take him to Sunday School. Now I am 79 and he is 16 and I am feeling what you are feeling. I think you should see a psychologist or social worker too....but your grandkids would want you around if you were committed to enriching their lives. If you are sad and not focusing on them, that won't work. I was heartbroken as a widow when I was alone, but my sweet grandson kept me going. I don't see him as much, but I never turn down a chance to take him to school or pick him up. I show up for any school events and do what I can to stay in touch despite his devotion to his computer. If your grandkids don't respond, maybe find a way to spend time with kids in need of a person who cares....kids will help.

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@maggiebird: I have made similar decisions and feel it is only right to keep in touch with grandkids - no matter where they live or what age they are!
Being a Grandma is not easy and we owe it to the kids to be interested in their current situation. They NEED to feel loved, treasured and accepted no matter! It isn’t difficult… just send emails, texts or cards. Don’t expect replies, but just be consistent. Love is free… too many kids feel alone. Decide to be the difference in their formative years to add to their self-worth and desire to have a successful life! Proud Gma

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