Brought up in Scotland I often heard, "we had tae pit her awa'." Was someone's granny being locked in a cupboard, or worse? Now Granny, while she is of sound mind, can choose to be ready for the next stage of her life without the fear of being "put away."
While on this subject, have you thought about moving to a seniors residence or a home? This may not be as traumatic as you think. Some friends who made that decision found that they had a happy new life.
From cooking a meal and then having to eat alone, meals will be shared with friends and become a social occasion.
A friend who recently moved into Courtyard Gardens excitedly told me to wave at her in the resident's bus as she was going to be in the Salmon Festival Parade on Canada Day. Her smiling face said it all. I was happy to know that her social life had expanded this way.
Alone in his home, an acquaintance did not eat properly. He would put a meal in the microwave and forget all about it.
When his daughter checked, the dried-up food was still there. It was time for a change.
He moved into Rosewood Manor and has come alive again! He's looked after and always has company.
Prices for these residences vary from beyond our means to some that take a portion of your pension.
Some provide care and some don't. Look online or go see them for yourself. Choose what is right for you. If you need medical care, you may get that as well. Your medical team will advise what is best for you.
I have mentioned two seniors residences here, with many more to choose from.
There may be a waiting list but that will give you time to get rid of your precious bits and pieces. You can't take everything with you, so start clearing out now. Honestly, you won't miss a thing. Your silver spoons and collections can go to the thrift shop, along with the china teacups and Hawaiian souvenirs that your family don't want.
Write names and dates on the back of old family photos, lightly, in pencil, to avoid ink spoilage. These pictures might be destroyed if family don't know who they are.
You may have a budding genealogist in the family one day. Leave plenty of clues and pack up your memories.
You could soon be living the life of Riley so make your mind up and take a chance. No shopping, no cleaning, no house repairs; just time to enjoy the life that you have earned.
Don't let negativity get in the way. Be positive and see where that gets you. A door may open to a much easier and more relaxed life.
Olive McDonald is a senior living in Steveston.
