To make things even more difficult, when those “conditions” that require all those meds develop, chances are your income has dwindled, and you are locked into a “fixed income.” (Don’t you just love that term?”) Life becomes really complicated when you are not at your “fighting best.”
I have reached that place. Luckily, because I am so poor, I qualify for a certain insurance to go with Medicare and I have to pay very little for my meds. So I guess my old age (that I am not really enjoying) is a good financial thing. However, food, clothing, special shoes, entertainment, a new cane, gas for my car, utilities, rent, and so much more are not adjusted to accommodate my age, physical conditions, or financial standing. I exist, but existing is not really living.
I know some individuals, where I live, have found the perfect balance, and everything is provided because they are poorer than I am. Some have no income to speak of and our government takes very good care of them. Others were in the military or were married to a deceased military spouse, and they are taken care of pretty well, also. And there are those with savings for old age that they can use (mine disappeared years ago when I was very ill). But those of us who worked in lower paying careers (in the South especially) for 40-50 years have made too much to really benefit from the “free” existence. And if we no longer have savings, we are literally “up a creek" without that paddle.
Now this is my dilemma. I have always been a positive thinking individual; I believe with lots of thought I can figure out a way to overcome my problems. So far, I am not even at the bat much less at batting average. EVERY idea I have come up with to supplement my income has fizzled. I wonder if it is where I live or if this is the way it is everywhere.
Some attempts are: I have tried to provide rides for older individuals who cannot drive and I did for a while. Then they found a “free” way to get where they wanted. I tried pet sitting. That has not worked out. I even tried to get part time work in an office. I was called overqualified (a euphemism for old) every time by a young person who was scared of my experience. I even applied to the US Government office designated for senior employment, and they never called. I think I would have a better chance if I had never worked.
So this is going to be my life from now until…? I am trying to decide if it is worth doing any longer. So far, I have not given up, but I feel that might be on the horizon if something does not give. Keep your fingers crossed for me. I need it.