I make detailed plans to cover the predictable situations I dread. I'm 67 and live alone in my own house. Recently I've done online searches for retirement communities ranging from independent living to managed care. I haven't contacted any of them yet but for some reason just checking things out and starting a plan eases my dread.

I started focusing on planning after I emailed a psychologist to get online help with my fears. She never responded to me so I have my Rodney Dangerfield moment to laugh at. This episode by itself cheers me. I'm not sure why, I guess some things never change and ya gotta roll with the punches regardless.