How to feel less lonely as you get older

[Marthe48]

14. I've lived alone since 2017

I missed my husband, but I think that's different from feeling lonely. I was always sort of solitary, so while I missed my husband, I wasn't lonesome. I made some choices, and living alone is one of those choices. Does that make it easier? Maybe knowing I'm the boss of it does help. I cook most of my meals from scratch, and put effort into my food plan. My last cat has revealed her personality since she become an only cat, and she keeps me busy with her expectations Before I get out of bed, I go over things I need or want to do and have a sort of plan to use up the day.

Before Covid, my kids and I got in the habit of texting in the morning. I knew they were worried about me, and it was easy to start saying hi. When the Covid shutdown started, I asked a couple of relatives and friends if they wanted to join in a morning text and we all thought it was a terrific idea. We've continued. For whatever reason, my friends and relatives in the morning cirlce are single. We keep it upbeat and short.

I've got local friends I stay in touch with. My daughter and her family live locally, and if they don't need help with the kids, they might ask me to help with the dogs. I've been a member of DU for 22 years, and being here is a big help. I feel like I got friends here that would meet for a cup of coffee

I started collecting when I was 8, and when my husband and I married, he got interested, too, so we spent over 40 years in a terrific hobby. I had time to think about things, and last year started a booth in a vintage mall. So I'm physically involved in something I've loved. On DU and on fb, I've found antique and collecting groups, and I really enjoy reading and contributing to discussions.

I'm active in my neighborhood and friendly with several of the families. I watch dogs, cats and chickens if I'm asked.

With all of this, it is still very easy for me to isolate myself. I'm glad all of my friends and relatives have a similar outlook We understand each other.