On this Thanksgiving Eve, many of us are preparing for turkey, football and spending time with the “kids,” long grown by now.
However, as San Diego’s KPBS points out, not everyone has children, and many of those who do don’t live near them. That can pose challenges for seniors who need care. But some have formed their own families.
The people I spoke with at the senior wellness center had various answers to what they would do when it came time for someone to care for them. Queen Johnson, age 73, has no spouse or children. But she said she can rely on what she calls her “extended family,” which is her close circle of friends.
“I have a very good network that is an extended family since I don’t have children, or brothers, or sisters,” said Johnson. “But I do have an extended family that is very supportive.”
It seems that some people may have found their “family” at the senior center the journalist reports from. Have you formed an extended family? Where?
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Leigh Ann Otte is a freelance writer who specializes in aging issues and senior care. She covers both for the Today Senior Living blog.
