I was taught to help my grandparents, doing a bit of ironing, taking my grandmother shopping, running grandad to hospital appointments and suchlike. Then, when my parents needed assistance, I did the same. My children were too young to be able to provide that sort of support, and they have no grandparents now, so the first time they'll be involved in helping someone elderly and frail will be with me and my ex. However, when I reach that stage I'll be able to do things like internet shopping and as I drive I expect I'll be independent for longer than my grandparents were. My clothes don't need much in the way of ironing, I can always call in a gardener, and I can keep on top of housework with just a few minutes effort a day.
So, it comes down to company, having visits from family, receiving phone calls and chatting to them online. At present, I have a busy role helping with grandchildren and my adult children all work. When that changes, I guess they'll be checking out whether I feel lonely, and so will my friends. This has made me think about how my family might help me and my friends see each other face to face if we become dependent on our children. I don't mind my own company for days on end, as I can always find things to keep me occupied, but enforced isolation might feel different. I am confident that my family would want to help resolve loneliness - in practical terms, though, I'm not that keen on moving in with any of them - like my own surroundings too much!