Old Age is a Country

It is what it is. It comes to us all so we must take it in our stride if we are lucky enough to get that far.

Many don’t.

Like Whiff, widowhood aged me too. Obviously the shock and trauma of it took its toll but also the absence of the one person who really "gets" you. No matter how good your day has been, you never get over the void of coming home to an empty house and not having that person (or anyone) to share it with.

The quote resonates with me. I’m in my late 70s, dealing with various conditions/ disabilities, trying to find my way and wishing that younger people could visit this land now and then and maybe understand what it’s really like.

It isn't a quote, although it may be a witty play on the original. He writes about the topic and speaks at events.

Never heard that quote before but a google tells me it should be “Old Age is a foreign country.” I don’t like it. I hate feeling older.

I much prefer L P Hartley’s quote “The Past is a foreign country. They do things differently there.” I have watched the film The Go Between countless times and those words echo in my mind.

I have grown into older age since being widowed as I was 45 now nearly 67. My mom always said older never old . Both states are a foreign country Rosie and Fried . But you can still have a good life just different. But grief can still be bone crushing at times. But then so can health problems that only get worse getting older.

You just have to learn different ways to cope with both . But do things your way no matter how odd it may seem to other people. But live your life to the full . My husband wanted me to live the best life I can and since I moved here 5.5 years ago I do. But took me until I was 61.to do it. He would have been 68 in February.

My dad always said no such word as can't. It's not easy but live a full life as we know some children and adults don't to get a chance as they die far to young . Enjoy the now and plan for the future the past is gone but we still have the memories . And need to keep our minds and bodies as active as we can . I know I owe it to my husband. And have kept every promise he made me keep he was a wise man and knew what I needed to live without him .
🌹🌹To you both

Sadly, somebody tore up my map.

It's an interesting metaphor, and as said, you just have to live with the passing of time. Nothing can be done to slow it down.
But, I've lived with myself long enough to know how I will probably cope now I've reached mid 60's. Hopefully I'll remain true to my existing personality and interests. Just because it's a different country, I'll still be me and new challenges will come along to keep me sharp. I guess it's the sudden unexpecteds that might throw me more as I enter this foreign country

A double whammy Maw. 😢

And widowhood is a foreign country in which we find ourselves unwilling immigrants.

Got to live with them both though

Oh so true! And walking isn’t always as easy as it used to be.. 😩