In 2023, 18% of the U.S. population is 65 and older. This is us, my husband and me. Way over. Many of us have considered whether we want to radically upend our lives, get rid of most of our beloved possessions, and move into a place that does many things for us. How would that be? You’ve given up your job, now you’re contemplating giving up the rest of your previous identity and moving in with a bunch of old people. Really?

When my husband and I made this move, it was not from immediate need. It was anticipating that need. My husband’s back was getting worse. We chose to make our life easier.  We were asked by many friends what it was like, living in a senior retirement facility.  I had no idea how life-wrenching the move would be. I started keeping a diary because I’m a writer; this is what I do.