Where do you want to grow old?

Artmatters,
Yes, our family has been putting climate change in the mix regarding a future relocation. We all live in New Orleans and have been dodging hurricanes for decades. We had record breaking heat every day this summer for six weeks.
All of us understand climate change and that New Orleans is endangered.
One of our children is moving to Maryland next week. Our other child has agreed to relocate there. As my husband and I are 68 and 71, we will follow along.

Perhaps continue to network here and find more ideas.
Volunteer for a charity with more in-home things. Start a limited one day at a time. Keep connected to family …despite limitations if you can. A small at home job? Look into health issues regarding foot and plan to address.
Marriages are work, but it helps to be civil and adult. There’s a lot out there. A church group?
Keep looking and be kind to yourself. You are worth it.

Moved from Wisconsin to Illinois to Arizona to South Carolina and now in North Carolina near the ocean (in 22 years). Lived in California for 5 years also. I love North Carolina. I cut back on my health care and medications. I have many more years behind me than ahead of me and made a decision to minimize all areas of my life. I was spending too much time in health care and not enough time enjoying my 'golden years.' I found in most of these states/places, good health care is a thing of the past. I am 'old' and treated with little respect at health care facilities of all kinds in all places. I can tell you where NOT to move to. I want to enjoy the remainder of my life near the ocean, with like-minded people, and family, when they have time for me. Live but one day at a time.

Hi fran102,
Before my rhizotomies for my back, during the time frame of "should we proceed", I lived in such a facility. I too was 10 years younger, and some were almost 40 years older. But the wonderful thing was that we initially connected through our shared medical stories. I learned a lot about perseverance, and built friendship based on our shared struggles and victories. With my multiple medical issues, I could connect and learn from their struggles, too. (much like Connect)
We had a "newspaper", and I volunteered to do the bios for some. Learning of their experiences (some heart-breaking) was enriching, and fast tracks finding that bond. There were many different activities, most of which I could not do.
I found the easiest way to make friends was doing puzzles, or a real easy method was to sit in the lounge! There were others who also felt alone and sought out others to chat with.
The biggest problem was the singing group... they really loved the songs from WW I and WW II .. aaaah!
It was an excellent place to recover from my procedures. After I was fully recovered, it suddenly seemed I was in the wrong place and moved out.
I did meet another woman there, who was her hubby's main caregiver. We became friends then and moved out into the same apartment building. We remain friends now, even with my move back east.
I would encourage you Fran, to stay out of your room and go to the various activities... not to necessarily participate, but just to be there, and encourage others from the sidelines. Everyone loves cheerleaders!
It does seem to get harder as we age, to meet new friends.
You do appreciate the "very nice" folk. No doubt they felt the same way at the beginning.
I am so glad you have found a good place to be.
I have some sayings on my fridge, "Friends are the family we choose for ourselves", and "Bloom where you're planted".
All the best fran!

I am 76, live alone, downsized 5 years ago to a senior mobile home park. Lots of activities if one is interested.

I use this as my base as I travel around in my motor home, just returned from a 2500 mile trip (yes, I drove the 36 ft rig) my girlfriend went with me she was the navigator, she is a young 'in only 75! Ha! We call ourselves Lucy & Ethel, as we are always out causing trouble and having fun!

Keeping busy is what I like, having served as President of the HOA and now President of a 501c3 registered charity that services our seniors in need, my plan is to stay here as long as I can, then I will check myself into AL or whatever.

My brother lives 5 houses down the street, we keep an eye on each other, and do some traveling together, we are going to Greece soon.

For now, this where I need to be. I take one day at a time who knows what tomorrow will bring? Not I!

Well, Dolly, aren't you a hoot! And good for you. Your attitude is just what I needed to hear today- dreary here. And instead of curling up with my kitty, I think I'll catch up with the laundry! Well, at least it's a step in the right direction!

Merry

I moved to Sun City AZ 1 year ago for two reasons: Close to Mayo Clinic Phoenix/Scottsdale AZ. And that Social possibilities living in an Extremely Active 55+ Community, not only here but in Maricopa County there are numerous Women’s and Men’s Groups to join that are older folks in this large county. I want to stay in my small house until I die. I am 79 years old and have Ambulatory Problems, but use a Walker and Cane and try to Swim at the Community Pool as much as possible with my Dog and Cat. I have No Family, am an Only Child. I like living alone.

You bring up a very good point, we can still make changes in our life, our surroundings. I have friends who go to various doctors weekly, personally I do not have time for that, yes I am in good health, only take acid reflux meds, that is it.

Many seniors do whatever the doctor says, without question, for some it has become a way to fill their day and gives them something to talk about, not that I want to hear about it daily.

Your attitude is wonderful, keep moving forward and enjoying your life!

Thanks for your reply. I’m glad to know we aren’t the only ones. Good luck and best wishes to you and your family.

At 79 and single, where to live is a constant question. In the US? or in another country where the cost of living is significantly lower? Medicare is a leash, and keeps me here, but medical care in many other countries is almost as good as here. In some cases better, cheaper, more available. In my home of 12 years, most alone. but in a married neighborhood. Most of my assets are stuck in this house and the real estate market is not good. My health is pretty good, thanks to Mayo, and if I move to another country, it is OK as long as I can get to Phoenix in a day! But everything can change if I meet a lady who shares my activities, a zest for life, and curious adventuresome!