Yes, Friend, no matter who we are, we age and eventually get old,
I see now the loneliness epidemic for older people is a worldwide phenomenon. In this culture (BDSM), I thought it would be less of an issue, but I suspect I was wrong. Loneliness as we age is indiscriminate and has become a global problem.
"Loneliness and social isolation are widespread social issues that affect people of all ages, including older people, and have been called a "loneliness epidemic". According to a 2022–2023 Meta-Gallup survey, 17% of older adults (aged 65 and older) in 142 countries and territories reported feeling very or fairly lonely, which is lower than the overall rate of almost one in four people. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 1 in 4 older people experience social isolation, and rates are similar across all regions of the world. " From a quick Google Search
Add to it when a significant other develops a cognitive disorder like Alzheimer's, it destroys the afflicted person and anyone close to them. Financially and socially.
It isn't easy to anticipate this and its effect when you are young, but believe me, when you get caught up in it, the results are devastating. All plans for your "Golden Age" vanish like the morning mist. Family and friends avoid you because 1) it may be hard for them to witness what is happening; 2) they cannot deal with the consequences; 3) they fear they will be asked to help with the emotional and financial risks in doing so.
I behaved like a wounded animal, twisting and turning in agony, lying on the ground, trying to come to terms with what was happening because of my wife's illness.
I finally arrived at this paramount conclusion: Since we married, my wife and I have thought of ourselves as one entity. WE ARE IN THIS TOGETHER UNTIL WHATEVER THE END WILL BE.
ONE REGRET? I SQUANDERED OUR NEST EGG IN SEARCH OF DUBIOUS SOLUTIONS TO MY LONELINESS.
