Being invited to an acquaintance’s house for a meal

Is it that bad to be invited for a meal you haven’t cooked? and you can always have an excuse ready to not stay too long after, (but I don’t mean jump up and leave as soon as the last mouthful is down 😂)
Is she that bad a person or company?
Go along with good grace and if it’s as bad as you imagine make sure you ve got your excuses lined up if she says ‘let’s do it again’
You might be surprised you might enjoy yourself

Have a heart! Is it such a terrible chore? I am widowed and live alone ... believe me it is hard to know how best to reach out to people when faced with this new unchosen life. Singletons are at such a disadvantage ... left out of dinner party invitations so as not to disturb the even numbers, faced with huge holiday supplements, navigating their way through a coupled world.
Do not be "annoyed with her for asking" ... she has done nothing wrong, except pick the wrong person to ask. I think you are being harsh.
People on their own are always being advised to take the initiative and reach out to others. I feel for this poor woman.

Maybe you could suggest other groups or things that she might like to join ?
I'm about to retire and have always been time poor and a bit of a loner so I'm going to have to become more socialable but like your acquaintance not quite sure how to do it !
I think she's lovely to invite you , maybe you could take another friend along to help her widen her circle ?

also, suggest activities/groups she could join, so she's not so lonely.
I do feel for her, loneliness is awful.

Is a date for dinner set? If so, and you know she is lonely, it would be churlish to pull out. But be prepared for vague replies to future invites. Practise non committal answers. "I'm not sure what I've got on then," sort of thing.

Hi, it's easy to say yes to things when we're put on the spot, so be kind to yourself.
I think maybe you'll have to go to the meal; you'll get something out of it.
Maybe explain while you're there that you have a lot of committments coming up & then gradually stop answering any calls from her.
How did she get in contact with you?
landline/mobile

Same- just go. Sometimes where we least expect it we can find enjoyment. That is my experience,anyway.

Just go- you may enjoy it!