I asked this question about closeness of family, and during the discussion it seemed that some people really had no contact with family to speak of. This made me start to wonder what happens to people who really have no one close when they start to reach that part of life where they are frail and their health is problematic.

It seems like many people are cared for by their children. But what about those who have no children? Do friends care for them? What if they don’t have any close friends who are willing and able to help them? Is it the state? Social Services?

So if there is anyone in a situation where you could wind up elderly without anyone who would obviously be willing to care for you, or if you know anyone like this, what do you think will happen? Do you have a plan? Will you just see what happens?

Topics: life, friends, family, care, aging, death, health care, society, recovery, elderly