Dear Eric: I’m 73, divorced, and in fading health. I’ve never really fit in anywhere in my life. My son had a very rough start in life, and I overcompensated by helping him out far too long. He’s 43 and recently cut off contact with me because I wouldn’t buy a house his wife wanted. I’ve taken out a $15,000 loan for them and they are not making the payments as promised.
In the meantime, his twin sister feels abandoned because of the attention her brother received growing up. She lives across the country, and I haven’t seen them in three years. She has a good job and is raising two honor roll students.
How do I make amends to my daughter? I wonder if I have autism as I’m very awkward and have no real friends. Is 73 too late to be tested and would it do any good to know?
– Locked Out of Life
Dear Locked Out: First, I want to let you know that you’re not alone. Many people feel stymied by social isolation. According to the University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging, 23% of adults aged 65 to 80 report feeling isolated from others. This feeling can pose unique challenges, but it is not too late for you to make changes that will positively impact your life.
It’s never too late to talk to a professional about autism spectrum disorder and I would highly encourage you to pursue it. There are online self-assessments available that can help you get started, but talking to a psychologist, psychiatrist or neurologist can provide a diagnosis that’s more specific to you. A professional can also help you find resources, locally, nationally and online, that can improve your experience of life.
Similarly, it’s not too late to make amends to your daughter. An amends doesn’t change the past, but it can set a different path for the future. Try reaching out with a letter first, acknowledging the hurt she felt and apologizing, with specifics, for the part you played in it. You don’t need to give an excuse – indeed, this may not help at this point. Instead, express a sincere desire to reset your relationship. Offer suggestions, if you have any, but also ask her if she’s open to a conversation.
Please also consult a lawyer about your options for recouping some of the loan from your son.
This journey is not an overnight trip. It will take time to rebuild a connection with your daughter, and it takes time to learn new things about yourself. But it’s never too late.
Send questions to R. Eric Thomas at eric@askingeric.com or P.O. Box 22474, Philadelphia, PA 19110. Follow him on Instagram and sign up for his weekly newsletter at rericthomas.com.
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