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How to deal with aging anxiety?

Aging Well | Last Active: 7 hours ago | Replies (67)

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Profile picture for susiewordsmith @susiewordsmith

I share many of the concerns expressed by so many commentators. At 79, I've survived a stroke, two heart attacks, knee replacement and 3 years of CRPS (chronic, intense pain) -- I've dealt with a lot. Currently managing 3 heart conditions, 2 serious joint issues, and most recently, GI problems. When the GI started, I felt it really unfair to have three body systems out of whack simultaneously. Where my situation differs from many of you is that I'm a card-carrying atheist, so religious support doesn't work for me. (I do pay dues and participate in a religious community...just for fellowship and socialization.) What does bring me real comfort is participating in Dignitas, the nonprofit organization in Switzerland which provides assistance in dying. I'm trying to follow Dr. Ezekiel Emanuel's tenet of "nothing invasive after 70," (except for getting broken leg from skiing set)...but each new issue poses existential challenge. I've been living alone for 30+ years, and have major stress from alienated adult child who lives nearby. All this said, so long as I have enough resources for a trip to Forch (one round trip ticket for my nephew; one one-way for me)...I hope I never experience prolonged suffering. Something to look ito, perhaps. Thank you for sharing your concerns in this forum. Nice to know there are lots of us facing these issues!

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Replies to "I share many of the concerns expressed by so many commentators. At 79, I've survived a..."

@susiewordsmith I appreciate you sharing. There are some days it is too much and then with the help of people like you in this forum we get thru and find a way despite pain and grief to get to the next day and make it what we can. Doing that today. Thoughts with you.

@susiewordsmith

I,too,am considering Dignitas at some point. I am an atheist as well. In NC where I live now, death with dignity is not yet legal. I am hoping that becomes an option also. The issue for me is that you have to be a hospice patient already to access it.

susie, thank you so much for posting.
I, too, have read about Dignitas and was comforted by it.
As a religious skeptic, I feel you when it comes to finding solace and peace from a higher power or the like.
I believe Dignitas will offer release to more than those with terminal illness which the US Medical Aid in Dying law requires.
Thank you for this reminder...I very much appreciate your sharing.
My hope is that you do enjoy life when not tending to medical issues, which I agree are fully unfair!!
Sending light and "glimmers."