LETTERS: When “Long Life” Becomes A Curse
Editor;
You once referenced construction of a Senior Ranch for like minded adults who had outlived family and friends and who preferred an active outdoor lifestyle as opposed to time in a senior care facility.
Have you made any progress in this direction? I have no children and no family left. My closest friends have either died or moved away. My research into senior assisted living has not been promising. I dread spending holidays alone. Although I am in generally good health and of sound mind (I’m 84, have side hustles that bring in money and am still able to drive etc.) I am beginning to fear the future. The well meaning wishes of “Long Life” from strangers and conciliatory acquaintances is beginning to feel more like a curse than a blessing.
Am I alone? I mean, yes, I’m alone but am I the only one living like this?
Tell me that you’ve built your ranch.
Sincerely,
Pat Walker/(hometown withheld at author’s request)
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What is a “like minded adult” and how is that determined?
You know it when you see it. It’s not a question answered by a dating app questionnaire, methinks.
I appreciate the refreshing forthrightness of the letter.
There should be more options for folks who don’t need assisted living, but might benefit from having activities, meals, housekeeping, and a nice community setting with other “like minded” people. The Waterford at Rossmoor might be an option – very nice place but the monthly dues are expensive.
We agree, John, and it’s why we mentioned our plans for a Senior Ranch where older folks who find themselves alone and cutoff could come and live with others. We actually have our sights set on a couple of suitable properties but we’re still a few million dollars away from acquisition!
I think that’s a wonderful idea!
A small community for older people who would benefit from the contact with others while remaining independent would be a great thing.
Much like college, but for older folks
A real Wrinkle Ranch!
Sure… only with wine and great food and companionship.
Somebody started this in the past few years. (He created one for his father, who was originally from India.) I think he has two communities of independent senior adults — one in Fremont and the other in Los Angeles. Folks get their own room and meals in the common dining area. Plus rent is not outrageous. I believe the East Bay Times did a story on the Fremont place.
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