There are many posts by on GN about grandparents feeling left behind, lost, lonely, when family move away, whether it is miles away in the UK or moving to another country. GransNetters respond with sympathy, empathy, and with suggestions on how to deal with the new situation. I am in the situation where both my son and daughter have created lives for themselves and their families in other countries. Like others here have said, modern technology provides the means of keeping in contact, and I contact them both regularly and whenever I feel the need for a chat. Text, email, Skype, FaceTime and Facebook all help to reduce the geographic gap between us. I am in the position that I am able to make several visits each year. We plan the next visit before I leave from the current one.
I am sorry that the OP is feeling depressed, and I have similar feelings periodically. However, I know that I have to live my life with the cards that I have been dealt. I cannot blame my children for my empty house. They have their lives and I have mine. We are close in hearts and minds, if not geographically, and I have to value their choices. I intend to be an asset to them and my grandchildren and not to impose a guilt trip on them. It’s not easy but I value both my freedom and my time with family.