About Aging Without Children

Many of us are helping our elderly parents handle their medical issues, finances and security. As I deal with doctors, hospital visits, aides and social workers I see how much time, energy and love is required to manage this. I can’t help but wonder–who will give me this kind of love and attention when I need it? Maybe you have nieces and nephews or other young people in your life and that is wonderful. But at the time when we will need their help they will likely be occupied with their own families and those will be a priority. Or they may not live near you. If we cannot get the kind of care that our own children would, ideally, give us, then how can we find someone who is at least competent and trustworthy? Can we put some kind of plan in place for ourselves?

I have a lot of questions. What kind of insurance should I have? Medicare does not cover everything. Where will I live if I am unable to care for myself at home? I am concerned about dementia, illness, being taken advantage of. I don’t have answers but I am going to post an occasional article here and I welcome your comments and input. I want this to be a resource and a forum for those of us who do not have children and are concerned about our futures as older people.