Pamela D. Wilson's Blogs

A woman I met several years ago when I became her financial and medical power of attorney went with the angels this morning at 6:27 a.m. I spoke with her best friend yesterday who was concerned that Hillary, previously outgoing and social, had a rather sad end to her life because she was without family and friends nearby. I did my best to reassure the friend that Eleanor could have had a sad life if we hadn't intervened -- but did not. When I met Eleanor she was living at home, very isolated. We moved her to an assisted living community where she made friends and enjoyed every activity of interest. While she had no one nearby she made friends with everyone she met and she had the foresight to realize that she would likely end her life alone. Several years ago I was appointed to take care of life circumstances when she would no longer be able to do so. So many older adults who find themselves alone because of not having children, children at a distance or a spouse passing are not nearly as wise as Eleanor. They give little consideration to who will willingly take responsibility for their life and be available to provide care when it's most needed. Don't leave the circumstances of your life up in the air. If you don't have anyone willing to assume responsibility for your life, at end of life, find a professional specializing in this area of life to support you. No one should pass from this life alone.