I've been visiting people in nursing homes, and I encourage you to do the same. People are there who are aged and facing the challenges of the end of life. Others are rehabbing, hoping to regain their homes. There are those who were isolated in their homes, now receiving some care and activities with others, and then there are those who are bedridden with limited interaction with people. 

In Craig Johnson's Longmire novels, Longmire visits his mentor once a week for a game of chess and conversation, a ritual that often becomes an ingredient in the mystery's storytelling. Lucian, a character who keeps his service gun in his room, has lost his leg but not his wit. Occasionally, he joins Longmire in his adventures.  Their interactions are part of what makes the stories interesting. 

When I can, Barb and I take people out for dinner. Others, like her mother, are too fragile for outings. 

I share this not for you to say "good man", but to encourage others to do the same. I think it will help you keep your independence as long as you can. Also, I think it will help reduce regrets in helping others with care and loneliness. 

Many nursing homes I have visited need more caregivers. Expect waiting times between when the patient needs help and when the staff actually attends to their problems. It is not the same as a hospital. There are also differences between different homes. It is a matter of money, but I think that more people taking an interest and visiting the people they know can lead to better care. Barb has really encouraged me with the care of her mother. Many at the nursing home enjoy her mother's sense of humor. She battles a now fragile body and dementia, but she still is who she always was and shares her cookies with others. 

Ps. A nursing home has great value. We could no longer care for Barb's mom and keep her safe. But it is good to continue with her care and oversight. For the others we visit, we have tried to help them with radios and internet options to create more ways to hold their interest. Most have found radios helpful.

Keep walkng