Aging for those of us without children

[AnneM793679]

As an oncology RN, I see how much kids do to help their parents as they age. I also see how much my sister has done for my mother. Kids are no guarantee, but they can be a great source of support and a safety net.

Concerned about being able to care for myself due to physical and possible cognitive changes. Also concerned about protecting my money who might identify as someone w/o family to watch over things or about someone trying to become my guardian.

[LisaS961881]

 Hi Anne,

    As someone who is in the same situation, having lost a child and a spouse, I can certainly empathize with your question - especially today.

     There are more of us “out there” than I had realized, and there are several informational sites on the web about aging without children. (Just google the title of what you wrote here and you’ll find them. ❤️)

       While individuals in our position have friends and community support, those close to us are usually within our age group.  I had established a Financial Durable Power of Attorney as well as a Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care four years ago and both individuals involved have since passed away.  I am currently in the process of rewriting everything. 
        The process is not as daunting as it seems.  I actually ordered a Will Kit which gave me lots of info, then went to an Attorney.

         I wanted to reach out and thank you for sharing this.  There are many of us who, for many reasons, do not have the support of children as we age.  We don’t have that “default” support, so we need to work just a tiny bit harder to ultimately make life easier.

         Take Care, and thank you for all of the compassion and assistance you have given to so many people.

    ~ Lisa