being alone can be a thing that happens to people as they age. and in this western society, people who age are not surrounded by family as they are in other cultures.

it is easy at any stage of life to get spooked and become a cardboard version of yourself, keeping polite and fitting in with what's happening. you can end up reflecting other people'sagendas and being a part of someone else's plans. as i write this, my cat is sitting on my right arm - her plan for me is that i will be her cushion!
                              
living close to other people is good - and close to transport, entertainment etc - maximum independence is also good.

freda