I'm a single mum of 2 boys. I have a half sister and half brother who I've never been close with but they have ceased contact with me since our dad died, which was 2 years ago. I am my mum's only child. She is 79 and amazing, still helps me with the kids, is fit and healthy, she is still working part time out of choice and very much fills her days. But I am starting to notice she is ageing, she takes longer to process things, gets more tired etc.
I have become very aware of her mortality and of the rest of my family. I don't have much of a relationship with any of my cousins, but my uncles and aunts are all well into their 80s. It's occurred to me that it really won't be that long until all of my family members who I am close with will need social or nursing care and possibly not be around for much longer. The thought of being a single mum with 2 teenage boys and no family left is terrifying. I do have amazing friends as part of my support network but they are all busy with their own families and lives. I just feel quite petrified for the future.