I’m putting it out there. How do people cope with change ? I must admit I have never been good even with small changes. In the week I walk the dog in the morning and then watch some tv. Some programmes are like a comfort blanket. On at the same time every day and I know what to expect. My sister visits in the afternoons. They dribbles by BUT weekend causes anxiety. Everything changes. I don’t cope well with the anxiety you would oh d think after a lifetime of suffering I would but there is no rhyme or reason. X
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It’s all so different for everyone. I also got a puppy and as much as it kills me to say it, I would give it all up to have him back but I say that knowing he won’t be back. You will get through the funeral, just like you get through every day. I thought it would be harder than it actually was and oddly, it was good and he would have been happy with it. It was nice to see so many people from his past, that he had mentioned and put a face to the name.
When you’re ready, maybe join a group or volunteer somewhere if you’re able to.
Meet new people to fill your life. The important part is, when you’re ready.
Sue Ryder do events you can sign up for, challenges, that could get you out and meet people. Join a local walking group etc.
There’s lots you can do but you have to be ready to do it. I do have to push myself to do things. It’s always easier to do nothing but that doesn’t help me.
Hope that helps
Ali
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@nel We used to have dogs but I know I’m not ready to have another one just yet. @Ali29 makes a good point about joining a group or volunteering.
Socialising can be so important to our general wellbeing. I started volunteering for one day a week about a month ago and so far so good. I thought it might be a bit early after my partner died, but because I’d been her carer for 3 years I had an awful lot of time to fill afterwards and I’m around people and animals where I volunteer and it helps. The good thing about volunteering is that if you decide you’re not enjoying it you can leave and find something else. Perhaps have a think about what you might like to do, have a browse on the internet see what local groups you have that might need a volunteer.
A lot of people think that volunteering is just to help us, but we can bring a lot to organisations with our life experiences and the skills we have learnt over many years that we can share with others.
I hope you find something and are able to give it a go.
Best Wishes
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I agree that a lack of public transport can hinder things. Many communities offer car sharing or lifts for people who don’t drive. Perhaps there is a local group in your area who offer such a thing?
If you volunteered for the stroke association they pay for your travel expenses xxxx i know cos i do that 
You get so much a mile for petrol, think about 35p a mile , probably pay for car parking if necessary ??? X
They will - cos i get about that much each trip x look into it
Ok … fair enough x
@Lonely I just anted to add to @Deb5 that I am a Senior Manager for a Charity and we pay volunteer expenses up to £25 per shift, I understand most Charities who use volunteers do the same. When we apply for funding we incorporate volunteer expenses into our budgets. It will hopefully widen the number of Charities you can approach according to your interests. Lots of Charities couldn’t operate without the invaluable support of volunteers like @Deb5 and @JustSomeBloke Fantastic that you are thinking of applying. Hope that helps xx
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@Lonely if you were thinking of volunteering for air and sea rescue that might be the case but otherwise most charities would happily accept you at 80 with all that experience and wisdom! 
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Indeed youre right xx
