I was reminded yesterday how much a little time spent with someone you care about means to them.

We had to buy groceries at the commissary yesterday and stopped by to see Bobby and take him a sack of cracked pecans. He didn't have a class until five. We packaged some of them up and took them to a neighbor across the street. (We used to live in the house Bobby lives in now) and people seldom move so we know all the neighbors.

Amy is looking the big 90 in the eye and like most older people who are alone, she gets lonely. Her children and grandchildren are busy with their own lives and although they see that she gets to the beauty shop and the grocery store, they don't sit down and visit much.

We were overwhelmed with hugs and kisses and entreaties to move back to the old neighbor hood. Her husband has been gone for ten years and she has lost most of her friends to the grim reaper.

She is fortunate to have no financial worries and can afford a yard man and a housekeeper but that doen't make up for overwelming lonliness.

Just think of the elderly who are left alone, with little money and who must struggle everyday to make ends meet. We are going to try to help with rides, visits and whatever
other help they need. Thank you Amy for reminding us.

Comments:

so true... I think retirement homes are such a great option because there are activities and people to talk to, I can't wait to go to one when I am older!

comment by larryb on May 4, 2008 6:39 AM ()

It will be a great day, after I pick up all the debris Rex has scattered over the yard! Here I go with those low class exclamation points again.

reply by elderjane on May 4, 2008 6:46 AM ()

Bless you for caring. I have a special place in my heart for the elderly. It'll be me someday.

comment by jerms on May 3, 2008 7:53 PM ()

elderliness sneaks up on a person. I am fortunate that it is the best time of my life and I owe it to my husband.

reply by elderjane on May 4, 2008 6:47 AM ()

Loneliness is a problem for all of us who live alone...no matter what our age.

comment by redimpala on May 3, 2008 4:43 PM ()

Hi Joan. A lot of people I know join clubs and do a lot of volunteer work.
My sister is very fortunate. She lives in Chickasha and still sees all the people that we went to school with. It makes for a cozy life.

reply by elderjane on May 4, 2008 6:52 AM ()

I live in a senior community and it is heart breaking to see how many older folks are neglected due to family and friends having passed on or no longer live nearby--of course some are outgoing and make new friends and 'family' but holidays are the worse time for them and alcoholism does become a big problem for some--I do my best to 'touch' those who have no one.

comment by greatmartin on May 2, 2008 4:24 PM ()

Good for you! Just a bit of friendly conversation helps.

reply by elderjane on May 3, 2008 3:37 PM ()

yes,we all should do that.Now when are you coming over and
taking me out to lunch.

comment by fredo on May 2, 2008 10:06 AM ()

Let's go.

reply by elderjane on May 3, 2008 3:38 PM ()