Recently, The NY Times ran an Opinion piece by an adult child of elderly parents, decrying their lack of planning for the final stages of living, anticipating all the dire things that can happen to those of us “of a certain age.” (You can read it by clicking here.) Our very own Barbara Bettigole responded with an excellent letter to the editor published a few days later. In case you missed it, here it is:
To the Editor:
Lack of planning is only part of the problem for the elderly. Fear of the dreaded old people’s home is very common among those who are determined to die in their own homes. What is needed is a more positive view of the options for us seniors.
Developing attractive, safe, affordable, well-supervised living places, such as continuing care retirement communities, is a far better option than sitting in a chair watching TV, waiting for the Meals on Wheels delivery.
I moved to a C.C.R.C. from a private house, where I had no close neighbors and no public transportation. Here I have my own space, friends, activities, meals, transportation and access to help in emergencies.
Which is better?
Barbara T. Bettigole
Sleepy Hollow, N.Y.